Woodhaven was once known as Woodvillle. Woodhaven is a community located in the southern part of the borough of Queens, New York.
Our school is named after Forest Park. It was built in 1915. Last year a modular addition was added to our school. Forest Park is located one block from our school and is one of the most scenic places in New York City. The beautiful flowers, you see in most of the parks around our city, are grown from seedlings and bulbs in hot houses in Forest Park.
Jamaica Avenue is a large commercial area of Woodhaven. Jamaica Avenue was originally created by the Native Americans living in this area, as they traveled back and forth on foot between the higher and lower lying areas.
Chris, Third Grade
This ancient roadway, which the colonists found in use, was elevated to the status of a Kings' Highway by decree of the royal government in 1703.
It became known as Jamaica Avenue because it lead from the Brooklyn Ferry to the colonial village of Jamaica. Many Dutch families settled into the Woodhaven area.
Most of the homes and religious buildings in our community were built in the early 1900's. They have been restored and still maintain their original beauty.
The Betty Smith home - restored by Mr. R. Lombardi
We are a diverse community with many cultures, rich in old world charm, yet embracing modern ways. Our community boasts about being home to the first numbered home in all of Queens and home to the author of A Tree Grows In Brooklyn, Betty Smith.
Currier and Ives photographs and plates are testimony to the rich history of Woodhaven.
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