Balancing past and present: The cultural landscape of Floyd Bennett Field

This thesis is based on the methodological framework developed by the National Park Service for use as a Cultural Landscape Report. Through in depth research and analysis of available primary and secondary documentation, the thesis provides a comprehensive history and evolution of Floyd Bennett Field's landscape. When first constructed, Floyd Bennett Field served as New York City's first municipal airport. While it operated as a military base for much of its history, today it is part of Gateway National Recreation Area.; A number of recommendations are included based on the findings of in-depth research and documentation. It is recommended that the period of significance is extended from 1928--1945. The National Register historic district boundary should also be expanded to include World War II development. The thesis explores the balance of the landscape's history with the demand for new use and the comprehensive history of the evolution of Floyd Bennett Field provides a framework for future exploration and treatment of the landscape.; Keywords. Floyd Bennett Field, cultural landscape preservation, Cultural Landscape Report, National Park Service, Gateway National Recreation Area, aviation history, World War II...