Meet 63rd Street
63rd Street is made up of many strong communities. On the east side, there are a variety of clubs, both private and public that invite people with similar interests to become part of a family. The Leash Club is a private one that was started by dog owners, whereas the Club Macanudo welcomes smokers to enjoy its extensive cigar collection. The Lowell creates a veritable home-away-from-home for its guests, and is helped by the quiet atmosphere of its tranquil side street. Members of the Society of Illustrators are interested in promoting the art of illustration, but rather than being private a private club, the society invites any interested parties – both from the area and around the world – to view its exhibitions and to join the sketch sessions on Tuesday evenings. The synagogue named for the philanthropist Edmond J Safra is also part of this cluster of communities, with a diverse, and tight-knit congregation. The building that houses the YMCA serves the neighborhood in a multitude of ways including the arts, exercise and guest rooms. I am sure, however, that most walking past this extraordinary building every day have no idea about the magnificent tiles that decorate the Y’s vast swimming pool; they were donated by King Alfonso of Spain back when the Y was being erected in 1930.
Not surprisingly, as I have been edging farther into the Upper East Side – just off of Madison Avenue – 63rd is home to several highly regarded international boutiques. Maison Goyard, although opening its first New York boutique in 2014, has been making luggage and travel accessories since the eighteenth century.
The true treasure, however, was discovering J.Pocker. Having the opportunity to meet Robyn Pocker, the granddaughter of the original owner, and learning the fascinating history of the frame shop that she, literally, grew up in was a highlight. Robyn entertained me with stories of her grandparents, dating back to the 1920s. She also shared stories of her father’s time in Germany during World War II, of how the store became a salon to the entertainment world after hours, and, ultimately, how the day she graduated college, she returned to New York and began her career in framing.
I ended my 63rd Street trek at Level R at the Empire Hotel. It was a melancholy experience, as this was my last view from a rooftop bar on a side street (there are no more of these sky high gems north of 63rd), but what a spectacular one it was. As it was during the daytime hours, I soaked in the sunlight and looked north up Broadway, imagining my future, walking towards my final goal of 155th Street.
