Hello, friends! Each Friday, we journey through time to explore the stories that shaped Roosevelt Island, our country, and the events that continue to influence our community today. Let’s connect the past with the present right here at home.
As June blooms, it’s the perfect time to revisit a remarkable addition to our Island, a monument that honors courage, compassion, and a trailblazing spirit: the Girl Puzzle Monument, dedicated to Nellie Bly.
Who Was Nellie Bly?
Nellie Bly was a pioneering investigative journalist who made history with her fearless undercover reporting. In the late 1800s, she famously feigned insanity to enter the infamous Blackwell’s Island asylum and exposed the harsh, often cruel treatment of women inside.
Her courageous work sparked reform and changed how society viewed mental health care. Nellie Bly’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the impact one voice can have in shining a light on injustice.
The Monument’s Story
Opened to the public in December 2021, the Girl Puzzle Monument is located near the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, a fitting place for a beacon of hope and change. Created by artist Amanda Matthews, the sculpture captures Nellie Bly’s determination and the complex stories of the women she fought for.
The monument is more than just a statue, it’s a gathering place, a conversation starter, and a tribute to the resilience of those who were once silenced.
A Walk with History
Friends, if you haven’t visited recently, I encourage you to take a stroll to the monument. Reflect on Nellie Bly’s bravery, and consider how her story lives on in our community’s ongoing conversations about mental health, justice, and advocacy.
June is a wonderful time for families and neighbors to connect with this piece of our Island’s history. You might even bring along some questions for the kids, or start a discussion with friends about the power of storytelling and standing up for what’s right.
Together, we keep our Island’s history alive, not just through monuments, but through our shared commitment to community and care.
Until next time,
– Ericka
On naming, neglect, and the quiet work that keeps things standing
About twenty years ago, there was Harbor Police activity near the water, just south of the subway entrance. At the time, no one really thought of it as a pier, though technically there was a small boardwalk there. Of course it wasn’t a pier. A pier implies intention.
