The New York Public Library—one of the most significant national treasures—was not created by the government but by American philanthropy. It owes its existence to Samuel J. Tilden, John Jacob Astor, and James Lenox. Library Founders Samuel J. Tilden, one-time New York governor, left the bulk of his fortune — about $2.4 million — for…
NYC HISTORY, SECRETS AND STORIES: Tottenville, Staten Island
The Conference House Guest Post by Angie Mangino, Author of 17th Century Tottenville History Comes Alive Did you know that a place in Tottenville on Staten Island could have changed the course of the American Revolutionary War? That location is known today as the Conference House. The Conference House is on the National Register of…
Peace Fountain — the Good, the Evil, and No Water
Conceived as a fountain, the Peace Fountain never had any water! The shortage of water, however, is more than compensated by a plethora of symbolic allegories. The whimsical sculptural composition features the sun, moon, crab, giraffes, Satan’s head, and the winged archangel. St John the Divine Cathedral Artist-in-Residence Greg Wyatt sculpted the Peace Fountain in…
New York City Exploration Games
City Exploration Games and self-guided tours offer a unique experience: on these urban adventures, you’ll solve puzzles, discover hidden places, and learn about New York. The games are self-guided, all you will need is a smartphone and an app. Each game leads you on a journey through different locations in New York. You’ll follow the…