Astoria

The Astoria area was originally inhabited by Native Americans known to Europeans as the Mespat or Maspeth tribe. European settlement began in the seventeenth century, notably by Englishman William Hallett and his wife Elizabeth Fones, leading to its original name of Hallett’s Cove. Stephen Halsey, known as the father of Astoria, expanded and improved the settlement in the 1830s. The village was incorporated in 1839 and named after fur tycoon John Jacob Astor.

During the second half of the 19th century, economic and commercial growth brought increased immigration. Astoria and several other surrounding villages were incorporated into Long Island City in 1870, which in turn was incorporated into the City of Greater New York in 1898. Commercial activity continued through the 20th century, with the area being a center for filmmaking and industry. Astoria is one of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods in Queens.