Knickerbockers: New York's Original Cool Kids (Or So They Thought)
So, you wanna know about the Knickerbockers? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into a history lesson that's more fun than a hot dog at a Mets game.
Who Were These Fancy Pants?
Think of the Knickerbockers as New York City's original "it" crowd. We're talking about the descendants of those Dutch settlers who rocked up to Manhattan in the 17th century and were all, "Yo, this place is gonna be huge!" And they were right. But instead of becoming hipsters or tech billionaires, they decided to become the city's elite.
These folks were the original power players. They built mansions, threw lavish parties, and looked down their noses at anyone who wasn't related to them. It was basically like the Real Housewives of New Amsterdam, but with way better hats.
The Knickerbocker Legacy
Now, you might be wondering, "Why should I care about these old money snobs?" Well, for starters, they're responsible for some pretty iconic New York stuff. Washington Irving, the author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, was a total Knickerbocker. So, yeah, you can blame (or thank) them for that spooky tale.
And let's not forget about the Knickerbocker Club, a super exclusive gentlemen's club that's still around today. If you're not a descendant of a Knickerbocker, don't even bother trying to get in. You'll be turned away faster than a Yankees fan at a Mets game.
Knickerbockers: Alive and Well?
So, are there still Knickerbockers around? Technically, yes. But the term has lost a lot of its original meaning. These days, it's more of a nostalgic nod to old New York than an actual social status.
But hey, if you ever meet someone who claims to be a direct descendant of a Knickerbocker, feel free to ask them if they still have a powdered wig lying around. Just for fun.
How To Knickerbocker FAQs
How to sound like a Knickerbocker: Use words like "carriage" instead of "car" and refer to your apartment as a "townhouse." How to dress like a Knickerbocker: Think tweed, polo shirts, and loafers without socks.How to party like a Knickerbocker: Hire a live orchestra, serve caviar, and insist everyone wears formal attire.How to get into the Knickerbocker Club: Be born into the right family. Or, you know, just dream about it.How to appreciate the Knickerbockers: Learn about New York City's history and understand the role these families played in shaping the city we know and love today.