"Open to the People for Their Free Assembly": Tompkins Square Park, 1850-1880.

An essay is presented on the significance of public assemblies at Tompkins Square Park in New York City between 1850 and 1880. The article examines immigration to New York city during the mid-19th century, the German-American population living near Tompkins Square Park, and conflicts between workers and employers at the park. The article also discusses the New York National Guard's Seventh Regiment, known as the Silk Stockings regiment, New York City politics, and public protests at the park.