The New York Historical Society, located on the Upper West Side of New York City, is one of the oldest museums in the United States, established in 1804. The society’s mission is to explore the richly layered history of New York City and the nation through its extensive collections and exhibitions.
The building, designed by York and Sawyer and completed in 1908, is an architectural marvel featuring a classical revival style. It houses a collection of over 1.6 million items, including an extensive archive of documents, artifacts, and artworks. Among the notable collections is the Henry Luce III Center for the Study of American Culture, which displays over 40,000 objects from the society’s holdings.
One of the hidden gems of the Historical Society is its collection of Tiffany lamps. The society holds one of the largest collections of these iconic lamps, which were first created by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The vibrant stained glass and intricate designs are a testament to the Gilded Age's craftsmanship and artistic innovation.
The Patricia D. Klingenstein Library within the society is one of the most important American history research libraries in the world. It contains over 3 million books, manuscripts, maps, and other archival materials. Notably, the library holds the original draft of George Washington’s farewell address and an extensive collection of Civil War documents.
The Historical Society is also known for its educational programs and public lectures. The DiMenna Children's History Museum offers interactive exhibits that engage young visitors with the past in innovative ways. Additionally, the society’s Center for Women's History is the first of its kind in the nation, dedicated to the study and exhibition of women's contributions to the history of New York and the United States.
A lesser-known fact about the society is its role in the preservation of the Central Park West Historic District. The society advocated for the protection of the architectural integrity and historical significance of the Upper West Side, contributing to the area's designation as a historic district in 1990.
The New York Historical Society also hosts the “New-York Historical Society Museum & Library” which features rotating exhibitions that cover a wide array of topics from the American Revolution to contemporary social issues. One of its most famous exhibitions is the “Slavery in New York” exhibit, which delves into the often-overlooked history of slavery in New York City.
In sum, the New York Historical Society offers a comprehensive view of American history with a focus on New York City, featuring unique collections, educational programs, and a commitment to historical preservation.