FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Historic Richmond Town?

Historic Richmond Town is the American experience from the 17th century until today.

• Can you explain that?

We are a living museum that presents the diverse American experience from the early days of the Dutch and English settlers right up to the present Visitors can tour historic homes,

experience traditional living, get a close-up look at historical artifacts and make concrete connections between the past and the present.

The museum is home to four historic sites in Staten Island, NY:

1. The historic village in the town of Richmond;

2. Decker Farm, the oldest continuously working farm in NYC;

3. The Billiou-Stillwell-Perine House, the oldest home in Richmond County; and,

4. The Judge Jacob Tysen House near Snug Harbor Cultural Center.

• What kind of activities will I experience when I visit?

Depending on the day and season you may experience some or all of these

traditional activities:

• How big is it?

Historic Richmond Town spans over 100 acres of diverse park land and consists of over 35 original historic structures dating back 4 centuries, including the oldest

still-standing schoolhouse in the country. But for a few exceptions these structures are all original - not reconstructed. They are the real thing. The handmade nails that were pounded into wood centuries ago are still in the walls.

• Is it true that the houses were moved there?

Less than half the structures were rescued from destruction and moved to Historic Richmond Town's main site. The remaining were also saved from loss but were never moved. They remain on the spots they were built upon.

• Is it true that Historic Richmond Town is NYC's only restored historic village.

Yes. Original, real and unique.

• When are you open, how do I get there and how much does it cost?

Directions, hours and admission for the main site can be found here. If you wish to visit one of our other sites please call 718-351-1611 ext. 280. Please remember that special events are different than regular admission. Please check this site regularly for updates.

• Is there more to Historic Richmond Town than the village and houses?

Yes. We have a curatorial and research staff that manages the Staten Island Historical Society Collection of over 100,000 artifacts, documents and photos that tell the American story from the days of settlers until today. We have collections within the complete Collection that are world-class, including the Alice Austen Photo Collection and the Children's Furniture Collection. Exhibits are found in our Historical Museum which include a free iPod audio tour of our Bringing Up Baby exhibit. In addition to these collections, we also publish the Historian, our journal, first printed in 1938, and produce numerous events, both traditional and modern.

• Aren't the Alice Austen photos at the Alice Austen House?

The Alice Austen House is the former home of Alice Austen and is currently operated as an historic home open to visitors. Historic Richmond Town and the Alice Austen House are both members of the Historic HouseTrust. The images on display at the AAH are on loan from Historic Richmond Town. These photos, like many other historic items, were rescued from destruction by the pioneers of preservation at the Staten Island Historical Society, and are now stored at Historic Richmond Town. The SIHS retains the copyright to 97% of the more than 7,000 images. These delicate items are protected and are part of a continuous restoration and conservation effort. They are made available for research, exhibits and other works.

• What is the difference between the Staten Island Historical Society and Historic Richmond Town?

Today, there's not much difference. Technically, the SIHS operates Historic Richmond Town. But you can think of them as one in the same.

• Do you have professional guides or volunteers?

Our guides are trained staff members, many of whom started out as apprentices when they were 11 or 12 years old. This professional staff works with trained volunteers who assist in the interpretation of history and culture. We also have volunteers who help out in almost every department and area. The Women's Auxiliary is a special part of the institution that is run by hundreds of volunteers. Each year they run special events and have functions that raise money for Historic Richmond Town. They also operate our on-site restaurant the Bennett Cafe.

• Can I volunteer?

Sure, anyone can volunteer. You don't need a special talent. Volunteers are needed in all areas from ‘Tech to Tours.’ If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, call (718) 351-1611, ext. 240.

• Do you have many special events?

The institution runs hundreds of family events and programs each year. Check out our events page for a complete list. A few fan favs:

• Richmond County Fair

• Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farm

• Uncorked! NYC's Wine, Food & Fun Fest

• Old Home Day

• Rev War Weekend

• Candlelight Tours

• Murder, Mystery & Mischief Nights

• Book Clubs

• Community Day

• How do you raise money to operate and maintain all these things?

We do have a lot to manage. We receive support from the City of New York, the Borough of Staten Island, the Historic House Trust and the NY State Council on the Arts. We've also receive corporate support form Time Warner Cable, Con Edison, BNP Parabas and other local businesses. The Carnegie Foundation, Richmond County Savings Foundation, Staten Island Savings Bank Foundation and other organizations have funded numerous projects. We also receive wonderful support from our Women's Auxiliary which raises funds throughout the year. But the majority of our support comes from people like you who become members, contribute gifts or come to our events and programs. All those donations and visits to Historic Richmond Town add up to a high level of support. We thank you for that.