Podcast Summary: The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show
Episode: Karol Markowicz Show: Forgotten New York: A Love Letter to the City with Kevin Walsh
Release Date: February 26, 2025

In this engaging episode of The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show, hosted by Premiere Networks, Clay and Buck delve into a heartfelt conversation with Kevin Walsh, the creator behind the acclaimed website and books, Forgotten New York and Forgotten Queensland. Kevin brings his passion for preserving the architectural and infrastructural history of New York City, offering listeners a nostalgic glimpse into the city's bygone eras.

1. Introduction to Kevin Walsh and Forgotten New York

[09:32] The episode kicks off with Carol Markowitz introducing Kevin Walsh, highlighting his impressive work in documenting New York City's lost landmarks. Kevin shares his long-standing fascination with the city’s evolving landscape, tracing his journey back to 1962 when he first noticed the replacement of ornate cast-iron lampposts with modern, streamlined poles.

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “Back in 1962, I noticed that all the lampposts on my block had been taken down and replaced with brand new ones. I was fascinated by this. I just was.”

2. The Genesis of Forgotten New York

Kevin recounts the inception of Forgotten New York, which began in 1998 during the early days of the World Wide Web. Frustrated by under-construction websites, he envisioned a comprehensive platform filled with rich content from the outset. This vision materialized into the website, showcasing detailed photographs and historical accounts of New York's infrastructure, from lampposts and mailboxes to stoplights.

[15:30] Reflecting on the early days, Kevin expresses gratitude for the dedicated following his project garnered, including features in prominent publications like The New York Times and The New Yorker.

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “I was gratified for the following I have gotten in the early days... The New York Times article was pretty good. I was above the fold...”

3. Preserving New York’s Architectural Heritage

Kevin emphasizes that Forgotten New York isn’t merely a nostalgic tribute but a critical examination of the city’s architectural and infrastructural transformations. Unlike civic promoters, his work often highlights the elements he wishes hadn’t been replaced, offering a balanced perspective on New York’s relentless modernization.

[17:38] He shares his approach to writing, aiming to delve deep into the less-discussed aspects of the city, such as faded signs and old mailboxes, which serve as gateways to understanding New York’s rich history.

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “I wanted to talk about New York City's infrastructure... It serves as a gateway to a New York City that a lot of people don't know about or have forgotten.”

4. The Impact of Change and Personal Reflections

Discussing the inevitable changes in New York, Kevin conveys a nuanced view. While he appreciates certain modern architectural advancements, he laments the loss of beloved historical structures. He acknowledges that change is constant but advocates for a balanced approach that honors the past while embracing the future.

[19:17] Kevin reveals his relocation to South Florida, noting how his move has influenced his perspective on urban development and historical preservation.

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “I enjoy its architecture, I enjoy its infrastructure. If you like what I do, you can see how much I love the city despite the changes.”

5. Engaging with the Community Through Tours

One of the most rewarding aspects of Kevin’s work is conducting Forgotten New York tours. These guided walks allow enthusiasts to experience the city’s history firsthand. Despite challenges posed by health issues and the pandemic, Kevin continues to engage with his audience through live presentations and events, fostering a community passionate about preserving New York’s heritage.

[25:25] Kevin shares heartfelt stories from his tours, including instances where participants formed lasting relationships, underscoring the personal impact of his work.

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “A couple of people who met during one of my Forgotten New York events got married. Yeah, it's great.”

6. Reflections and Advice

Towards the end of the conversation, Kevin offers insightful advice to his younger self, emphasizing the importance of having clear aspirations and seeking mentorship early in life. He reflects on his own journey, acknowledging areas where he felt he fell short but remains optimistic about pursuing passions regardless of setbacks.

[30:09] Kevin candidly discusses his character flaws and the lessons learned from his experiences, advocating for proactive goal-setting and open communication with mentors and parents.

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “If you aspire to more, you need to understand what you want to do at a very early age. You need to find a mentor who will take you through all this.”

7. Final Thoughts and Takeaways

As the interview concludes, Kevin emphasizes the joy he derives from his work and the importance of following one’s passions, regardless of financial rewards. He reassures listeners that personal fulfillment often outweighs monetary success, encouraging everyone to pursue what genuinely makes them happy.

[34:19]

Notable Quote:

Kevin Walsh: “If it makes you happy, do love it.”

Conclusion

This episode offers a profound exploration of New York City's hidden histories through Kevin Walsh's dedicated efforts. His narrative serves as both a love letter to the city and a call to preserve its unique architectural and cultural landmarks. Listeners are left with a deeper appreciation for the unseen elements that define New York and the importance of remembering and honoring the past amidst rapid modernization.

For those interested in delving deeper into New York’s forgotten facets, Kevin Walsh’s Forgotten New York website and books are highly recommended resources.