America 250 at Historic Richmond Town
This year marks 250 years since the founding of the United States, a milestone that invites us to reflect on the nation’s beginnings and the many stories that have shaped the American experience.
At Historic Richmond Town, we’re commemorating America's 250th anniversary with special programs, events, and exhibitions throughout the year! From immersive living history experiences to lectures, family activities, and a brand-new exhibition, our campus will serve as a place to explore the complexities, triumphs, and ongoing evolution of our shared history! We invite you to join us as we mark this historic anniversary together.
Explore our America 250 programs, events, and offerings below.
America 250 Essay Contest
In celebration of America’s 250th, selected students are invited to submit essays reflecting on what the American flag means to them. Fourth graders with winning submissions will receive prizes at the Independence Day celebration!
America 250 Mid-Winter Break Workshop
Celebrate America 250 with your family this February break at Historic Richmond Town! Join us February 18 & 19, 12–4 PM, for American Revolution–inspired workshops where kids can create marbled paper, meet a Revolutionary War spy, design a quill pen, and choose their loyalty, to the Crown or to be a patriot. Drop-in program; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Field of Flags
Help us create a field of flags across the Historic Richmond Town campus in honor of service members past and present. Dedicate a flag to recognize active-duty military, veterans, or loved ones. Names will be displayed on our website as a lasting tribute. (Memorial Day to July 31)
Five Borough History Journal
Explore the stories that shape New York City through the Five Borough History Journal. This publication highlights research and perspectives from across the city, connecting local history to the broader American experience.
Founding Principles:
The Declaration of Independence, Civics, and Staten Island Exhibition
Opening June 2026, this exhibition explores the foundations of American democracy through the lens of Staten Island. Featuring objects from our collection, it examines civil liberties, civic responsibility, and the role of government while encouraging active participation in civic life.
Franklinia Tree Planting
Join us as we plant a Franklinia tree in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. This commemorative event symbolizes growth, resilience, and the enduring legacy of the nation’s founding.
Staten Island Historic Houses
that Witnessed the american revolution
Explore the historic homes on our campus that stood during the American Revolution. These structures offer a glimpse into daily life on Staten Island in 1776 and the people who experienced this pivotal moment firsthand.
Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day with old-fashioned family fun! Enjoy costumed interpreters, hands-on activities, patriotic music, food, and more. Sign your name to the Declaration of Independence and experience history brought to life in New York City’s living history village.
the Limestone project
The Limestone Project highlights how limestone has played a vital role in American building traditions since the era of the American Revolution. Widely used to create durable stone structures and lime mortar, it formed the backbone of construction in early communities.
By examining limestone’s historical significance, the project connects past craftsmanship with ongoing preservation, revealing how this enduring material has shaped the built environment across centuries.
Objects of the Month
Each month, discover a featured object from our collection connected to America’s 250th. From everyday items to rare documents, these artifacts reveal stories of Staten Island’s past and the nation’s founding.
Historic Recipes from Historic Richmond Town
Step into the past through food with recipes inspired by Historic Richmond Town’s history.
Learn about traditional dishes, cooking methods,
and ingredients that reflect everyday life in earlier
eras.