Staten Island Historical Society Inc.

The Staten Island Historical Society Inc., also known as Historic Richmond Town, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of Staten Island, New York. Founded in 1856, it is one of the oldest and largest cultural institutions on Staten Island.

History

The Society was established over 160 years ago with the mission to collect, preserve, and interpret the material culture of Staten Island and its surrounding communities. By the mid-20th century, it embarked on an ambitious project to create a living history village, which evolved into Historic Richmond Town. This project was led by local historians and preservationists such as Loring McMillen and William T. Davis, inspired by the historical preservation efforts of the era, similar to Colonial Williamsburg.

Historic Richmond Town

Historic Richmond Town is a museum complex and living history village located in the neighborhood of Richmondtown, Staten Island. It features over 30 historic structures, including homes, shops, and farm buildings, dating from the late 17th to the early 20th centuries. Key exhibits include the Voorlezer's House, the oldest standing elementary school in the U.S., and the Guyon-Lake-Tysen House, a Dutch Colonial farmhouse. Visitors can experience restored homes and workshops through guided tours and special events throughout the year.

Collections and Preservation

The Society maintains a vast collection of over 60,000 artifacts, photographs, and archival materials. These collections are accessible through the Library of the Staten Island Historical Society, which serves as a key resource for researchers interested in local genealogy and history. The library's holdings include extensive records of early Richmond County wills, deeds, and other historical documents.

Mission and Engagement

The Staten Island Historical Society is committed to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in its operations and programs. It strives to build accessible spaces and a culture of diverse voices, promoting historical and cultural awareness to a broad audience. The organization supports various humanities projects, both locally and nationally, and offers educational programs for the public, including workshops and guided tours.

Annual Activities and Events

Historic Richmond Town hosts several annual events that bring history to life, such as Old Home Day, the Richmond County Fair, and cultural festivals. The Summer Apprenticeship Program offers young people a chance to learn traditional trades and skills. These events encourage engagement with history and contribute to the organization's mission to enrich understanding of Staten Island's rich cultural heritage.

Governance and Leadership

In recent years, the Society has continued to evolve with new leadership. Notably, Laura Gentile was elected as board director and president in 2020, marking the second time a woman has led the organization, following Edna Hayes, who served from 1978 to 1989.

Impact and Recognition

As a significant cultural institution in New York City, Historic Richmond Town attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, making it a pivotal center for historical education and community engagement.