Chapter 1: Traces of the Ice Age in Brooklyn

Evidence of significant geological events often resides in plain sight, waiting for observant eyes. A simple train ride from the city to the beach can unveil this history.

Photo by Howie Mapson on Unsplash

The Earth is in a constant state of flux. While some transformations are readily apparent, others unfold over millennia. The lasting monuments of these geological shifts are all around us, and for those who pay attention, a fleeting glance from a subway window can reveal much.

The Last Glacial Period, which concluded roughly ten thousand years ago, has left its mark across New York. Living in this vibrant city has sparked my curiosity about its geological background, particularly as a resident of Brooklyn.

I turned to geologist Anita Harris for insights during this exploration. Her role in John McPhee's book, In Suspect Terrain, provides a wealth of knowledge, particularly regarding Brooklyn's geology.

When you visit Coney Island beach, take a moment to consider the sand beneath your feet. This erratic sand is a remnant of the outwash fields.

The glaciers that once advanced toward New York originated in New Jersey, transporting numerous boulders that now adorn Central Park and Brooklyn.

The glacial shield halted in Flatbush, and as it receded, it left behind tons of sand, rocks, and debris, forming a moraine. Greenwood Cemetery is a prime example of this geological feature.

During your train journey to the ocean beach, there’s a specific point where you transition from the rocky foundation of the continent to the outwash field of the most recent glacial shield.

I find myself reflecting on this natural boundary each time I cross it, reminding me that everything is transient and urging me to appreciate the remarkable world surrounding us.

The first video, "Looking for Clues of the Last Ice Age Around New York," explores the remnants of the Ice Age in New York City, uncovering fascinating insights about this geological past.

Chapter 2: The Ice Age Impact on Central Park

The second video, "The Ice Age Rock in Central Park," takes a closer look at a significant geological feature in Central Park, revealing its Ice Age origins and significance.

Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more enlightening stories!