We Lived in the “Original” Trump Tower(s)
In the early 1960s, our family moved from Queens to a sprawling apartment complex in Brooklyn known as Beach Haven (pictured above), owned by none other than Fred Trump—yes, Donald’s father. A decade earlier, one of Bob Dylan’s greatest inspirations and folk legend Woody Guthrie (pictured above), had lived in the same complex and penned the song “Old Man Trump“, coining the term “Trump Towers” and condemning racist housing practices of the time.
Our own experiences, however, were far more idyllic. Beach Haven, just outside of Coney Island, offered a slice of city life softened by neighborhood charms and cool rides walking distance away. One of our Brooklyn neighbors was a granddaughter of Nathan Handwerker (pictured above), the founder of the iconic Nathan’s Hot Dogs. I became close friends with her son Michael, and can still remember meeting Nathan himself at one of Michael’s birthday parties.
For a kid in Brooklyn, it felt like living in the original “Trump Towers”—with a side of mustard/sauerkraut and slice of American history.
Michael MIller, MD is Chief of Medicine, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VAMC and Professor of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania His most recent book “Heal Your Heart” is published by Penguin Random House
Michael Miller, MD
MASPC, FACC, FAHA, FNLA
Dr. Miller is a leading cardiologist and heart health expert whose pioneering research on positive emotions, diet, and physical activity supports the integration of all three modalities for optimal vascular health.