The Map of Williamsburg by Greats Brand

Despite the arguments that gentrification has caused Williamsburg to change, there is no denying it still retains a charming aura. Greats Brand has therefore created the Map of Williamsburg to showcase the mix of old and new in the same way that walking down any street in Brooklyn will tell you a story of what once was, what is now, and what will be on the way soon.

Williamsburg native, John D’Aponte, has illustrated a map that highlights the history and current favorite spots that might not show up on regular tourist maps. Take a look at the video, which discusses the inspiration behind the map with everything from official city directories to books about graffiti writers in the golden era of New York City hip-hop.