Are There Any Astors Left in NYC? A Gilded Age Mystery
So, you’re wondering if there are any Astors still hanging around New York City, eh? Well, buckle up, because this is a tale as old as time (or at least as old as the Gilded Age).
The Astors: Royalty Without the Crowns
Once upon a time, in a land of skyscrapers and dreams, there reigned a family named Astor. These weren’t just any royals; they were New York royals. Think of them as the Kardashians, but with way more money and way less drama (probably). They built empires, owned more real estate than you can shake a rent-controlled apartment at, and generally lived lives that made the rest of us question our life choices.
Are They Still Around?
The short answer is: probably not in the same way. The Astors of today are likely more interested in their private jets and Swiss bank accounts than throwing lavish balls on Fifth Avenue. But, hey, who knows? Maybe there’s a secret Astor lair somewhere in the Upper East Side, filled with gold-plated toilet brushes and a pet poodle named Caviar.
Astor Place: Now, before you start planning your Astor-spotting expedition, let’s be clear: Astor Place is named after the family, not currently inhabited by them. It’s like naming your kid Rockefeller and expecting them to strike oil in your backyard. Disappointing, we know.
The Astor Legacy Lives On
Even if the Astors themselves have faded into the background, their legacy is still very much alive. From the iconic Astor Hotel (RIP) to the New York Public Library, their imprint on the city is undeniable. So, while you might not bump into an Astor heir at your local bodega, you can certainly appreciate their contributions to the city that never sleeps.
How to Spot an Astor (Just Kidding)
Okay, so you probably won’t spot an Astor, but here are some other things you can do:
- How to find Astor Place: It’s in Greenwich Village, and it’s a pretty cool little spot.
- How to appreciate Astor’s influence: Visit the New York Public Library, or simply enjoy the city skyline.
- How to feel like an Astor for a day: Stay at a fancy hotel, order caviar, and pretend you’re solving a murder mystery.
- How to become an Astor (in your dreams): Win the lottery, buy a lot of real estate, and name your kid something ridiculously posh.
- How to accept that you’re not an Astor: Order pizza, watch a movie, and enjoy the simple things in life.