Staten Island Historical Society

Staten Island Historical Society. The Staten Island Historical Society is a historical organization located in Staten Island, New York City, and is one of the oldest historical societies in the United States, with roots dating back to the New York Historical Society and the American Scenic and Historic Preservation Society. The society was founded by notable individuals such as William T. Davis, Charles W. Leng, and Henry C. Murphy, who were instrumental in preserving the history of Staten Island and its surrounding areas, including Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. The society's early years were marked by collaborations with other historical organizations, including the New-York Historical Society and the Brooklyn Historical Society.

● History

The Staten Island Historical Society was established in 1856, with the goal of preserving the history of Staten Island and its people, including notable figures such as Henry Hudson, Peter Stuyvesant, and Robert Fulton. The society's early years were marked by the collection of historical artifacts and documents, including items related to the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. The society also worked closely with other historical organizations, including the Society of Old Brooklynites and the Long Island Historical Society, to promote the preservation of historical sites and landmarks, such as Fort Wadsworth, The Conference House, and Sandy Ground. The society's history is also closely tied to the development of Staten Island as a major transportation hub, with the construction of the Staten Island Ferry and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.

● Mission and Activities

The mission of the Staten Island Historical Society is to preserve and promote the history of Staten Island and its people, through a variety of activities and programs, including exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs. The society works closely with other historical organizations, including the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, to promote the preservation of historical sites and landmarks, such as Floyd Bennett Field and Miller Field. The society also collaborates with local institutions, including the College of Staten Island and the Staten Island Museum, to develop educational programs and exhibitions, such as the Staten Island History Day and the Staten Island Arts Festival. The society's activities are also supported by notable individuals, including Michael Bloomberg, Rudolph Giuliani, and Andrew Cuomo.

● Collections and Exhibitions

The Staten Island Historical Society has a diverse collection of historical artifacts and documents, including items related to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution. The society's collections include items such as George Washington's letter to the New York Provincial Congress, Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, and Thomas Edison's phonograph. The society also has a significant collection of artifacts related to the history of Staten Island, including items from the Staten Island Ferry and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The society's exhibitions have featured notable historical figures, including Benjamin Franklin, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin D. Roosevelt, and have explored topics such as the History of New York City and the Impact of the Civil War on Staten Island.

● Historic Sites and Properties

The Staten Island Historical Society is responsible for the preservation and maintenance of several historic sites and properties, including Historic Richmond Town, The Conference House, and Fort Wadsworth. The society works closely with other historical organizations, including the National Park Service and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, to promote the preservation of these sites and to develop educational programs and exhibitions. The society's historic sites and properties are also supported by notable individuals, including Robert Moses, Fiorello La Guardia, and John Lindsay. The society's efforts have helped to preserve the history of Staten Island and its people, including the Lenape Native American tribe and the Dutch West India Company.

● Education and Community Outreach

The Staten Island Historical Society is committed to education and community outreach, and offers a variety of programs and activities for adults and children, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours. The society works closely with local schools, including the New York City Department of Education and the Staten Island Technical High School, to develop educational programs and exhibitions, such as the Staten Island History Day and the Staten Island Arts Festival. The society also collaborates with community organizations, including the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and the Staten Island Advance, to promote the preservation of historical sites and landmarks, and to support local economic development initiatives, such as the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation and the New York City Economic Development Corporation. The society's education and community outreach programs are supported by notable individuals, including Michael Mulgrew, Carmen Fariña, and Bill de Blasio. Category:Historical societies