Long before Patti Smith and PS1 drew attention to Fort Tilden and its post-Sandy reopening, it had always been a place I yearned to photograph. All the photos I had seen reminded me of a perfect combination of Lost (the TV show) and the graffiti yesteryears of NYC. Fort Tilden is an old military base located on the Rockaway Peninsula between Jacob Riis Park and Breezy Point. Established in 1917 and named after Governor Samuel J. Tilden, the fort was built during World War I. The military installations are abandoned now and everything is lush and overgrown. Momentarily forget about the buildings that are being renovated by local art groups, and keep walking past them toward the paths that lead to the dune and the beaches. Climb the wooden stairs to the top of Battery Harris East and enjoy the 360-degree views that overlooks the city, New York Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. The Battery is a historic gun site that used to house 70-foot cannons shooting 2,300-pound shells 25 miles out to sea. Hidden among the lush foliage are ruins of the other buildings. The scent of Queen Anne’s lace fills the air as you wander through this place that housed military through 1974. The paths seem to circle each other and are worth wandering down to explore the dunes. Pack a water bottle, a camera and your sense of adventure. Fort Tilden is a perfect blend of history, serenity and nature. Fort Tilden, 169 State Rd, New York, NY 11697 Tilden SEPTEMBER 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
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