Conference House Park | Staten Island

Information

Landmark: Conference House Park
City: Staten Island
Country: USA New York
Continent: North America

Conference House Park, Staten Island, USA New York, North America

Conference House Park is a historic site located on the southwestern tip of Staten Island, New York City.

Visual Characteristics

The park's primary structure is the Conference House, a stone and timber building constructed in the Dutch Colonial style. The exterior features fieldstone walls and a steeply pitched roof. The surrounding landscape includes mature trees, open lawn areas, and waterfront access to the Arthur Kill.

Location & Access Logistics

Conference House Park is situated at 298 Satterlee Street, Staten Island, NY 10309. It is approximately 15 miles from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. Access by car is via the Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway (I-278) to Richmond Avenue, then south on Richmond Avenue to Arthur Kill Road, and finally west on Satterlee Street. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options include the S51 bus route, which stops near the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Conference House was built circa 1680 by Captain Christopher Billopp. It served as a private residence and was the site of the Staten Island Peace Conference in 1776, an unsuccessful attempt to negotiate an end to the American Revolutionary War. The park's land is part of the coastal plain ecosystem of Staten Island.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the historic Conference House, which is furnished with period artifacts. The park offers walking paths along the waterfront. Fishing is permitted from the shoreline. Educational programs and special events are held throughout the year.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the park. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors are not typically present within the park; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions or dine in nearby areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography of the house and waterfront is during the morning or late afternoon for optimal natural light. The park is accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer mild weather for outdoor activities. High tide can affect shoreline access for fishing.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Edward Rutledge met with British officials at the Conference House in an attempt to avert the Revolutionary War. The house is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of Captain Billopp.