Jamaica is a neighborhood located in the borough of Queens, New York. Its name, although similar to the Caribbean region, is derived from the native Lenape word “yameco,” or “beaver.” The English claimed the area in 1664 as part of Yorkshire County; in 1683, Jamaica became the county seat of Queens County.
Today, Jamaica is home to 76,579 residents, as well as several local and federal government buildings. The Greater Jamaica area is comprised of several adjacent neighborhoods, which include Howard Beach, Springfield Gardens, Hollis, and Cambria Heights.
