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.
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.
Yes. Original, real and unique.
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.
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.
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.
Today, there's not much difference. Technically, the SIHS operates Historic Richmond Town. But you can think of them as one in the same.
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.
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.
The institution runs hundreds of family events and programs each year. Check out our events page for a complete list. A few fan favs:
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. |
Protect the Treasure!CalendarSpecial EventsSat., March 13, 2010 Decker Farm Stand Sat., March 13, 2010 St. Patrick's Day Dinner Dance Tue., March 16, 2010 Literacy Leadership Luncheon Sat., March 20, 2010 TAVERN CONCERT-Triboro Wed., March 24, 2010 Curator's Private Showing - Doll Collection Sat., March 27, 2010 TAVERN CONCERT-Point Cross Sat., March 27, 2010 Easter Egg Hunt Thu., April 1, 2010 SPRING IN THE VILLAGE Sat., April 3, 2010 TAVERN CONCERT-Harbortown Review Thu., April 8, 2010 To Kill a Mockingbird Fri., April 9, 2010 To Kill a Mockingbird Sat., April 10, 2010 TAVERN CONCERT-Dirdy Birdies Jug Band Sat., April 10, 2010 To Kill a Mockingbird Sat., April 10, 2010 To Kill a Mockingbird Workshops and ClassesSat., March 13, 2010 Story Museum Wed., March 17, 2010 English Country Dance Thu., March 18, 2010 Story Museum Thu., March 18, 2010 Quilting Class Wed., March 24, 2010 English Country Dance |
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