What a history this park has. Beginning in the late 1800's, Tompkins was the center for protests and political dissent when the local residents spoke out against unemployment and gentrification. Robert Moses redeveloped the land in 1936 and in the 1960's and 1970's many concerts were held here, including Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead. During the 1980’s, when police began enforcing closing hours, the park’s homeless population was greatly affected and many people were displaced. The park officially closed for renovations in 1991 and reopened in the summer of 1992 complete with a dog run, two playgrounds, and renovated monuments. These days, Tompkins Square Park is known for several annual events that include the Charlie Parker Festival, a drag festival called Wigstock, and The Howl Festival in honor of Allen Ginsberg.