Midwood’s name originates from the Dutch “midwout,” or middle woods. And for many years, Midwood was an actual dense woodland in the middle of Brooklyn. That bucolic quality would begin to turn toward development after 1890—when Brooklyn became part of New York City—with houses and apartment buildings following an influx of people in the 1920s. Its forest may be gone, but Midwood today maintains a certain town-in-the-woods quality. By nature of its physical location, it’s quieter and perhaps more serene than noted neighborhoods north of it. Even though some still think of Midwood as simply part of greater Flatbush, there’s no denying this area stands distinctly on its own. Around town, you’ll find multitudes of home styles—including townhouses, condominiums, and co-ops. The community itself has given rise to several notable names in politics, sports, and the arts and remains representative of Brooklyn’s tendency to make space for everyone to prosper.