When thinking of New York, many images come to mind. From the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to the world-famous Central Park and playing at a bitcoin casino, the Big Apple certainly has a way of drawing people in. But what some may not know is that the city is home to a vibrant Armenian community, which has made the city their own.
The History of the Community
Armenian immigrants began arriving in New York City in big numbers around the beginning of the 20th century. They came from what is now known as Turkey, formerly known as the Ottoman Empire. Most were of the working class, and many were refugees fleeing the Armenian Genocide, which began in 1915.
Armenians primarily settled in Little Syria, an area in Lower Manhattan that later became known as the “Little Armenia” neighborhood. By 1924, the Armenian population in Little Syria had reached nearly 20,000, making it the largest Armenian community in the United States at the time.
The Armenians of Little Syria primarily worked in small businesses, such as stores, restaurants, and cafes, that served the largely immigrant population. Many of these businesses served traditional Armenian foods, like the popular lahmajoun, or Armenian pizza.
Today, the population of Armenians in New York City is estimated to be around 200,000, making it one of the largest of its kind in the world. This vibrant community has left its mark on New York, from businesses and restaurants to churches and cultural centers.
One of the largest Armenian churches in the city is the Armenian Church of Saint Vartan, located in Manhattan. It was established in 1895 and is the oldest Armenian church in the United States. The church serves as a symbol of the Armenian community’s long presence in the city and its dedication to preserving its heritage.
There are also Armenian businesses, restaurants, and organizations throughout the city. One of the most prominent Armenian restaurants is Café Ibrik, located in Midtown. The restaurant has been open since 1998 and offers a variety of traditional Armenian dishes. It has been described as one of the finest Armenian restaurants in the city and a must-visit destination for anyone with an appreciation for the cuisine.
The Armenian community also hosts regular cultural events throughout the year. Armin Borian’s Cultural Center is among the most popular venues for such events in the city. They organize events such as traditional Armenian cooking classes, lectures, films, and concerts. On top of that, they sponsor an annual summer fair and host an Armenian food festival every November.
There are a variety of Armenian organizations in New York, including the Tekeyan Cultural Association, an organization dedicated to preserving Armenian culture and language throughout the diaspora. These establishments help connect Armenia with the diasporans living in the city, bridging the path to their ancestral land.
Over the past century, the Armenian community in New York City has grown and prospered. From churches and dining hotspots to cultural events and organizations, the Big Apple has become home to a vibrant Armenian community. Those who visit can experience the culture and see firsthand the heritage that has been cultivated over the years.