Historic Richmond Town | Staten Island

Historic Richmond Town is a living history museum and cultural complex located in Staten Island, New York. Spanning over 100 acres, it preserves and interprets the rich history of the region through restored buildings, interactive exhibits, and educational programs.

Historical Background

Established in the 1690s, Richmond Town became the county seat of Staten Island in 1728. After Staten Island's incorporation into New York City in 1898, governmental functions moved to St. George, leading Richmond Town to transition into a residential area. In the 1930s, community volunteers and the Staten Island Historical Society initiated efforts to preserve the area's historical structures, culminating in the creation of Historic Richmond Town.

Architectural Highlights

The site features over 30 historic buildings dating from the late 17th to the early 20th centuries. Notable structures include:

Voorlezer's House: Believed to be the oldest known schoolhouse in the United States, dating back to the 1690s.

Guyon-Lake-Tysen House: A Dutch Colonial farmhouse from around 1740, showcasing period architecture.

Christopher House: A circa 1720 structure featuring the only functioning jambless fireplace in New York City.

Stephens-Black House: Built between 1838 and 1840 in a modified Greek Revival style, it includes a general store added between 1840 and 1870.

Third County Courthouse: Constructed in 1837, this Greek Revival building served as the Richmond County Courthouse until 1919.

Educational and Cultural Programs

Historic Richmond Town offers a variety of programs designed to immerse visitors in the daily life of past centuries:

Open Village: From May to August, costumed interpreters demonstrate trades, political life, and fashion from the 19th century.

Daily Programs: Include "Talk of the Tavern," "Life of the Lenape," and "Fashion, Function and Freedom," among others.

Guided Tours: "The Two Centuries Tour" and "1820s Village Life Tour" provide in-depth explorations of the site's history.

Special Events: Seasonal activities such as pumpkin picking at Decker Farm, Oktoberfest, and candlelight tours offer engaging experiences for all ages.

Visiting Information

Address: 441 Clarke Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10306

Phone: (718) 351-1611

Hours:

January to March: Friday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

April: Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

May to August: Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Admission:

General Admission: $11

Youth (ages 6–11): $6

Children under 5: Free

Free Admission: Thursdays from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (May to December)

Historic Richmond Town serves as a vital link to Staten Island's past, offering visitors a tangible connection to the lives and experiences of earlier generations through its preserved buildings and immersive programs.