By Adam Hart
Nicknamed “The Forgotten Borough”, Staten Island is a borough of New York City mainly situated on an island in the southwest part of NYC. It has a population of over half a million residents and has been called “the most interesting borough in America.” Its attractive shorelines, thriving cultural scenes, and top-notch landmarks make it a popular draw for tourists worldwide.
First settled by Dutch settlers in 1661, Staten Island soon became one of the most important cities on the East Coast. In addition, it is a substantial military base for controlling shipping lanes coming into New York harbor—a role it continued to serve during both World War I and II.
10 Wonderful Facts About Staten Island
1. Staten Island is located in Richmond, with a population of around 500,000, making it the smallest of the five boroughs in New York City. Staten Island consolidated with NYC in 1898.
2. Staten Island was once called the Borough of Richmond until 1975.
3. Over 40% of the people who live on Staten Island are of Italian descent, making it one of the most Italian places in the U.S.
4. Todt Hill on the island is the highest natural point on the East Coast at 410 feet above sea level.
5. The beautiful Staten Island Ferry carries over 15 million passengers every year.
6. Staten Island has one of the largest strip malls in New York. Opened in 1973, the Staten Island Mall in Richmond County has over 200 stores.
7. The Staten Island Zoo consists of 15 acres and is well known for its African animals. It has over 1200 animals.
8. One of the most beautiful parts of Staten Island is the park system, with beautiful walking tracks, ball fields, and beaches near South Beach. The most popular place on Staten Island to visit is Fort Wadsworth National Monument at Clove Lakes Park, featuring a Revolutionary War-era fort that British soldiers built to prevent attacks from sea pirates.
9. Per Capita (earning power of the residents), Staten Island is the second richest borough in New York City behind Manhattan. The yearly average household income is between $70,000 – $80,000.
10. If you want to live in New York City without feeling like you live in New York, then Staten Island is the best place to be. Trees and nature occupy at least 40% of the island. It is the greenest borough in all of N.Y.