Building History: Boy Scouts' Contributions to Historic Richmond Town
In celebration of Volunteer Appreciation Month, we had the privilege of sitting down with Eugene Zheleznov, a Committee Member for Staten Island’s Boy Scout Troop 1. Since 2003, Troop 1 has been volunteering at Historic Richmond Town, contributing their hard work to various projects across our historic site. Most recently, they undertook a much-needed fence repair around the main parking lot. Troop 1 is just one of many Boy Scout Troops that have generously volunteered at Historic Richmond Town over the years. Read on to discover the profound impact of their contributions.
Can you share some highlights from your troop's various projects at Historic Richmond Town? Which project stands out the most and why?
Each of our projects holds its own significance and impact. One recent highlight is the parking lot fence painting project, led by Eagle Scout candidate Daniel Zheleznov. Building upon the foundation of a project laid by Eagle Scout Danny Lynch in 2003, which involved cleaning and repainting the majority of the parking lot fencing, Daniel's project focused on rejuvenating a portion on the far side of the parking lot. Given the importance of these fences in ensuring the safety of Historic Richmond Town and its visitors, Daniel's initiative to reinforce them with new wood and a fresh coat of paint was essential. Furthermore, his team went above and beyond by repairing adjacent areas of the fence, exceeding the initial project goals. This experience also provided many of our scouts with their first extensive painting opportunity, fostering a sense of fulfillment and dedication to volunteering for HRT.
March 2024 | Troop 1 | Fence repair and painting.
October 2003 | Troop 1 | Fence pressure washing and painting.
What are the most rewarding aspects of volunteering with Historic Richmond Town?
More than anything, the sense of pride and accomplishment is the most rewarding aspect of volunteering with Historic Richmond Town. The boys were thrilled to know that their efforts contributed positively to this remarkable organization. After we completed this project, I heard a touching anecdote from one of the scouts: while driving with his family near Historic Richmond Town, he excitedly pointed at the fence, exclaiming, “I painted this part of the fence!” Intrigued, his father pulled into the parking lot and requested to see the area he had helped restore. With confidence and pride, the Scout explained the project and where his clothes had been stained while working. In the end, the value of this moment of pride and connection to American heritage far outweighed any concerns about ruined clothing.
May 14, 2016 | Troop 1 | Landscaping, planting shrubs, perennials, and mulching around Historic Richmond’s Third County Courthouse.
How has volunteering with Historic Richmond Town contributed to the personal growth and development of the scouts in your troop?
Volunteering with HRT has been a transformative experience for many of our Scouts. These opportunities teach teamwork, responsibility, and commitment. Our Scouts collaborate with others, take ownership of tasks, and witness the direct results of their efforts. Additionally, the Eagle candidate who organized the project gains an opportunity to improve leadership skills and develop project management expertise. Overall, our Scouts recognize that they’re part of something bigger—a legacy of preservation and community service.
In what ways do you believe your troop's efforts have positively impacted the preservation and promotion of Staten Island's rich history?
The Boy Scout Eagle projects are one of the most impactful ways that people outside the museum fields can contribute to the preservation and promotion of Staten Island’s rich history. By assisting with restoration projects at HRT, such as painting the fences or cleaning and repairing other historic houses and areas of the site, our scouts have been able to give the necessary care to preserve iconic buildings, structures, and landscapes. These projects ensure that some of Staten Island’s most important historic pieces remain intact for future generations
How did your troop decide on which projects to undertake at Historic Richmond Town, and what factors influenced those decisions?
May 19th, 2018 | Troop 1 | Fence repair at the Historical Museum.
Project selection at HRT is typically guided by the administration's assessment of immediate needs. Whether it's restoring a historic building, maintaining a garden, or preserving a fence, these priorities determine which projects are undertaken. Additionally, troop size influences project choices; larger troops can handle more extensive tasks, while smaller ones may focus on scaled-down projects. Seasonal considerations also play a significant role, as outdoor projects vary in suitability throughout the year. For instance, spring is ideal for gardening tasks, while summer or early fall may be more suitable for other outdoor projects. Fortunately, during our recent fencing painting project, favorable weather conditions in March allowed us to complete the task efficiently.
Can you share any memorable experiences or interactions your troop had with visitors or staff at Historic Richmond Town during your projects?
During the initial day of our recent fence project, we were intrigued by the presence of a vigilant observer—a Good Citizen, as we affectionately refer to her. She remained parked in her Hyundai, closely monitoring as the Scouts revitalized the wooden fence into a vibrant white picket fence. She later shared that while she was initially uneasy of our presence there, friendly interaction between the HRT facilities team and our troop alleviated her concerns and she eventually got out of her car to talk to us about our work. This encounter served as a reminder that the members of the community play a vital role in preserving Historic Richmond Town and its surroundings, too. It's wonderful to know that someone cares enough to remain vigilant, observant, and brave.
August 2019 | Troop 1 | Painting and revitalizing of the General Store.
What skills did the scouts in your troop develop or enhance through their involvement with Historic Richmond Town, and how do you see these skills benefiting them in the future?
For many of our volunteers, this was the first large-scale painting project they had ever been involved in, and for some, this was the first time they ever painted! It’s fascinating to see how they progressed: from being scared to get paint on themselves to freely painting as many fences as possible. Many of them learnt practical skills - attention to detail, patience, and craftsmanship- which will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavors. The Eagle Scouts candidates also learned important leadership and management skills.
Reflecting on your experiences, what advice would you give to other Boy Scout troops interested in getting involved with community projects at Historic Richmond Town or similar historical sites?
Get involved! This is your community, your country, your history! Where else in NYC can you discover the art of crafting a broom or basket, witness the skill of a blacksmith firsthand, or savor food prepared in a centuries-old oven, just as it was done two centuries ago? Where else can you delve into history right where it unfolded? You are not just painting a fence or a wall-you are preserving the diverse histories of real people. Each brush stroke only adds to the preservation of time. So, paint with care, knowing that future generations will admire your work.
Ready to leave your mark on history?
Join us in preserving the legacy of Historic Richmond Town through volunteer opportunities like those undertaken by the Boy Scouts. Reach out to us at info@historicrichmondtown.org to get involved today!