Conference House Park | Staten Island

Conference House Park is a historic and natural landmark located in the Tottenville neighborhood on the southern tip of Staten Island, New York City. It spans approximately 265 acres and combines significant historical sites, diverse natural landscapes, and recreational facilities, making it one of Staten Island’s most important parks.

Historical Significance

The centerpiece of the park is the Conference House, also known as the Billopp House. Built around 1680 by Captain Christopher Billopp, a British naval officer and Loyalist, this stone mansion is a rare surviving example of colonial architecture in the region.

The 1776 Peace Conference:
The house is famous for hosting a peace conference on September 11, 1776, during the American Revolutionary War. British Admiral Lord Richard Howe met with American representatives John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Edward Rutledge in an attempt to negotiate a peaceful resolution. The talks ultimately failed, and the war continued.

Restoration and Museum:
The Conference House has been restored to reflect its 18th-century appearance and operates as a museum open to the public. It features guided tours that educate visitors about the building’s colonial history and the significance of the 1776 peace talks. The house is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Other Historic Buildings:
The park includes several other historic homes, such as:

Biddle House (circa 1845): A Greek Revival-style residence.

Ward House (circa 1830): Federal-style architecture.

Rutan-Beckett House (circa 1850): Victorian-style design.
These buildings contribute to the park’s historical environment and offer additional context about Staten Island’s past.

Natural Environment and Archaeological Importance

Conference House Park protects a variety of natural ecosystems:

Landscapes:
The park contains woodlands, meadows, dunes, clay bluffs, freshwater wetlands, and shoreline areas along Raritan Bay. These diverse habitats support a range of plant and animal species, making the park a valuable ecological resource.

Burial Ridge Archaeological Site:
Within the park lies Burial Ridge, the largest known prehistoric Native American burial ground in New York City, used by the Lenape people. Excavations have revealed human remains and artifacts dating back more than 8,000 years. In 2021, part of the park was designated as the Aakawaxung Munahanung Archaeological Site by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission to protect this culturally significant area.

Recreation and Amenities

Almer G. Russell Pavilion:
The pavilion was originally built in 1935, named after a local World War I veteran, and was recently reconstructed in 2021 after a major $6.5 million restoration. This open-air structure features a slate roof and ornamental details and offers scenic views of Raritan Bay. It is used for community events, concerts, weddings, and other gatherings.

Visitor Center:
Located within a 1930s Spanish Colonial Revival-style building, the Visitor Center provides park information, exhibits, and serves as the headquarters for the Conference House Association and the New York City Parks Department.

Trails:
There are more than 2.5 miles of walking and biking trails that traverse the park’s natural areas, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying waterfront views.

Playgrounds:
The park features two playgrounds, including the Lenape Playground, named to honor the original Native American inhabitants of the region. These spaces are designed for children of various ages.

Picnic and Open Spaces:
Visitors can enjoy picnic areas and open fields suitable for recreational activities and relaxation.

Visitor Information

Location:
7455 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10307

Access:
The park is accessible by car and public transportation, including Staten Island buses and the Staten Island Railway (with connecting bus or taxi options). Parking is available on-site.

Hours:
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. The Conference House museum offers tours Friday through Sunday, generally from 1 PM to 4 PM, with admission fees for adults and reduced rates for seniors and students.

Admission:
Entrance to the park is free. The Conference House museum charges a modest admission fee to support preservation and programming.

Summary

Conference House Park is a unique destination that combines a rich Revolutionary War history, significant archaeological sites, and preserved natural landscapes. It offers educational programs, recreational amenities, and scenic beauty, making it a valuable cultural and environmental resource for Staten Island and New York City. Visitors can explore the historic house where early peace talks took place, enjoy miles of trails, and experience the natural waterfront environment, all within a single expansive park.