Since the Central Park Conservancy’s founding in 1980, our staff has taken photographs of the Park, documenting its landscapes, events, restoration work, and more. While today our photographers use digital cameras, early photographs were taken on black and white film—which we now scan to preserve the Park’s picturesque past for generations to come. The following snowy scenes from the 1980s and 1990s are some of our most recently digitized images.
Though a blanket of fresh snow gives the Park an almost timeless quality, these black and white images from our archive remind us of the improvements made through the Conservancy’s work. Belvedere Castle, for instance, is shown here shortly before our first restoration of the iconic structure in 1983—and before we recreated the wood pavilion and tower from its original design, in 2019. We’ve also restored the Mall and rebuilt the rustic bridge in the Ramble, as well as the Bow Bridge and Western Shore Boat Landings.
Of course, there are constants, such as the Park itself and the people enjoying it. No matter the year, the Park is stunning in the snow, giving visitors the opportunity to stroll through a winter wonderland… and even break out their skis.
Suggested Reading
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About the Conservancy
Hope Springs Eternal: Newly Digitized Images of Spring in Central Park Throughout the Years
Here are some of the most recently digitized images of spring from our archive, which contains visuals dating back to the Central Park Conservancy's founding in 1980.
Tags: Conservancy Staff / Spring / Flowers / Tips for Visiting / History
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Things to See and Do
Central Park’s Most Instagrammable Wintertime Spots, Part II
With fewer crowds and a tranquility not found in other seasons, winter is an ideal time to photograph Central Park. Brave the cold and visit the Park this season—no filter needed.
Tags: Tips for Visiting / Winter / Highlights
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About the Conservancy
People of the Park: Martha & Serena
Central Park is integral to many people’s lives, and we're talking to some of them to get to know the people behind the people’s Park. Meet Martha and Serena, whose relationship is deeply entwined with this vibrant greenspace.
Tags: Conservancy Staff / Tips for Visiting / About the Conservancy / Nature Lovers / Park Experts / First-Time Visitors
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About the Conservancy
A Shared Space: Finding Connection Through Conservation
Urban greenspaces like Central Park connect city dwellers to the intricate and dynamic ecological systems we need for reflection and recreation, and other species count on for survival.
Tags: Conservancy Staff / Pollinators / About the Conservancy / Nature Lovers