There’s a place in Staten Island where you can step back in time to America’s colonial era. It’s a place where you see history come alive through architecture, period costumes, live-action trade demonstrations and so much more. This charming place is called Historic Richmond Town.
Historic Richmond Town is a living history village located in the borough’s Mid Island region. Fittingly, it’s nestled within Staten Island’s Richmondtown neighborhood. It’s interesting to note the distinction between the neighborhood of “Richmondtown” versus the village of Historic “Richmond Town.” They’re actually spelled differently!
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When Was Historic Richmond Town Founded?
Historic Richmond Town was originally founded as the Staten Historical Society in 1856. A name like this is certainly ideal, since the village is home to lots of artifacts that keep Staten Island’s history alive. Today, the village uses both names interchangeably, though it’s best known as Historic Richmond Town.
“Historic Richmond Town has been preserving and exploring Staten Island’s history for 166 years,” Jessica B. Phillips, Historic Richmond Town CEO, said. “The only educational non-profit of its kind in the borough, it plays a key role in welcoming everyone to share in the duty of knowing one’s history, whether you moved to Staten Island today or your family has lived here for six generations.”
There are nearly 40 historic structures on the site, including the Historical Museum and Third County Courthouse, which serves as Historic Richmond Town’s Visitor Center and Museum Store. Here, visitors can get a map and take a self-guided tour to see the exteriors of all the buildings at the Main Village site. A selection of them are open to the public throughout the year on a rotating basis, but the village is open year round.
What To See and Do in Historic Richmond Town
Everyone who visits this historic village gets immersed in fascinating local history, art and culture. It’s not only an educational place to visit, but a fun one, too! There’s something for everyone to enjoy and discover at Historic Richmond Town. It provides a day-long itinerary packed with family fun and learning!
While Historic Richmond Town is open all year long, admission pricing and daily offerings vary by season, so it’s best to check the website (historicrichmondtown.org) or call 718-351-1611 to confirm details.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of what visitors can enjoy at Historic Richmond Town!
Open Village
Historic Richmond Town’s Open Village is the centerpiece of it all. Here, visitors experience the sights, sounds and tastes of New York City’s past. You can see skilled artisans practicing their trades, tour the restored interiors of period homes, take part in civic life and browse working shops and functioning hearth kitchens. 2022 Season: May 25-October 2; Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-5pm; Admission: $10; $5 ages 6-11; free for ages 5 and younger.
Historical Museum
See a variety of exhibits that feature the museum’s artifact, photograph and document collections. Some popular exhibits include Bringing Up Baby, where visitors can see how furniture changed as childrearing practices evolved through the centuries. The Made on Staten Island exhibit shows items crafted and produced in the borough from the 18th to the 20th centuries, along with tools and other artifacts.
Guided Tours
Although the Open Village is seasonal, guided tours of Historic Richmond Town are offered year round. Tour groups get an up-close and intimate look at the village, including buildings that are not open to the public. Current tour schedule: October 1-April 30, Friday-Sunday; 12, 1, 2 and 3 pm; May 1-September 30, Wednesday-Sunday, 12, 1, 2 and 3pm. Tours are $13. There’s a 20-person limit, but groups of 10 or more can request a tour via email to education@historicrichmondtown.org.
Dining Options
At some point during your visit to Historic Richmond Town, you might need to stop and refresh with a snack or beverage. You can grab a bite to eat at two main dining locales in the village:
- Main Street Coffee: This family-owned coffee shop serves coffee, smoothies, waffles, pastries and a variety of toasts.
- Egger’s Ice Cream Parlor: Perfect for a hot summer day, stop by this quaint shop for a scoop of ice-cold deliciousness. Operating hours are seasonal, so call 718-280-1442 for more information.
The Richmond County Fair
Every September, Historic Richmond Town hosts the Richmond County Fair over Labor Day Weekend to close out the summer. The fair has been a mainstay on Staten Island for decades, and offers lots of family fun. It features games, rides, live music, food and so much more. It’s also a fundraiser that supports the village’s mission to preserve and share local history.
Lots of Family Events!
In addition to the Richmond County Fair, Historic Richmond Town hosts a variety of events throughout the year for visitors of all ages. Seasonal events include:
- Pumpkin Picking at Historic Richmond Town’s Decker Farm
- Tavern Concerts in the fall
- Christmas in Historic Richmond Town
What You Need to Know About Visiting Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island
Where is the village located?
Historic Richmond Town is located on 441 Clarke Ave., Staten Island.
What is Historic Richmond Town’s phone number?
You can reach the village by calling 718-351-1611.
What are the hours of operation and admission prices?
The village is open all year long, but admission and daily offerings change seasonally. It’s best to check the online schedule or call in advance before your visit. For more information about Historic Richmond town, visit historicrichmondtown.org or follow the organization of Facebook or Instagram.
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