Glendale

By Miranda Siegel | Special to amNewYork

May 31, 2007

In the last 400 years, the area now known as Glendale has morphed from freshwater swamp to vibrant German farming community to saloon-filled "playground," and finally to an attractive multicultural enclave bounded by graveyards and lush parks.

Although there exist remnants of the area's German population -- once the largest in all of New York -- the neighborhood has been redefined by the Eastern Europeans, Latin Americans and Albanians who have arrived within the last 20 years.

Despite the changes, residents feel that Glendale - where TV's Archie Bunker lived -- has maintained a consistent character. "The population's changed, but the feeling is the same," said Joe Fuoco, a lifelong Glendale resident and active member of the community. "When I was a kid, we were singing in the streets, there were musicians at every corner. Today, the neighborhood is just as open and inviting."

FIND IT

Glendale is defined by the Long Island Rail Road to the north, Fresh Pond Road to the west, Woodhaven Boulevard to the east and various cemeteries to the south.

REAL ESTATE
Glendale is largely comprised of smaller apartment buildings and single- and two-family houses, with the occasional older building being razed or remodeled into condos. Residents and prospective residents alike bemoan the area's rising prices.

"It's rough for the first time buyer," said Martell Vasquez, who is looking to buy in Glendale. "You'll need at least half a mil' if you want a decent house."

"The trend in Glendale is that it is a step up from those moving from Bushwick or Ridgewood or northern Queens," said John Dibs of RE/MAX Continental realty.

TO RENT:
Studio at 68th Street and Myrtle Avenue: $750
One-bedroom at 73rd Place and Myrtle Avenue: $1,150
Two-bedroom at 62nd Street & 75th Avenue: $1,425
Three-bedroom at Woodhaven Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue: $1,750

TO BUY:
Two-bedroom condo at 76-18 69th Pl.: $405,000
Three-bedroom, one-family house at 72-15 72nd St.: $499,000
Four-bedroom colonial-style house at Woodhaven Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue: $545,000
Five-bedroom, two-family house at 69-41 Central Ave.: $735,000

RECENTLY SOLD