Did you know that one of the key water sources for early New York City was a pond in what is now Chinatown? Known as Collect Pond, this 50-acre body of water was the main source of fresh water for the city in the 18th century. It was here that inventor John Fitch tested his steam-powered paddle boat in 1796! Today, the site is Collect Pond Park, with a reflecting pool honoring its history.
