Arriving
Beginning in 1880, the immigrants who would call themselves Syrians arrived in New York City after a 5,000-mile journey.
Living
Washington Street, just steps away from their disembarkation point, became known as the Syrian Quarter.
Work
Many at first peddled Holy Land goods or notions, but some worked in factories or set up shops or restaurants.
Religion
Maronites, Melkites, Orthodox, and Protestants each had their own chapel, and Arabic-speaking priests arrived in the 1890s.
Health
Crowded conditions in the tenements, regular flooding, and poverty all took their toll on the health of the community.
Arts and Culture
Music, literature and poetry were as important to the Syrians as economic success.
Al Qalam: Poets in the Park Coming soon
An upcoming art installation commemorating the first Arabic-speaking community in the United States