Sandy Ground Historical Society and Staten Island Car Rental

On your next trip with your Staten Island Car Rental, why don’t you visit the Sandy Ground Museum. This unique museum offers a library that examines the life and history of freed Blacks who settled in Staten Island before the Civil War, establishing the first North American community of freed slaves. The museum houses the largest documentary collection of African – American culture and history. The museum also serves as an educational research facility by the state of Department of Education.

A step back into history

Founded in 19th century by African – American oysterman fleeing from Maryland, Sandy Ground became the first free black community in New York. Originally called Harrisville, and later on Little Africa, it was eventually called Sandy Ground for its location on poor soil. When you visit with your Staten Island Car Rental you will get to see one of the oldest communities established by free slaves in North America.

Along the Underground Railroad

Sandy Ground also played an instrumental role on the Underground Railroad. It is speculated that Captain Jackson may have ferried slaves across the Kill van Kull between Staten Island and New Jersey abroad a ferry boat. It was also used as a central meeting place with the Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The First Settlers

Early settlers of Sandy Ground ranged from local families and oystermen from New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia and Snow Hill, Maryland drawn by the rich oyster beds the area provided. The settlement began as a farming region but the economy quickly shifted to oyster harvesting. The oysters were sold to the finest restaurants in Manhattan and the surrounding areas. Other people turned to digging, iron working, and blacksmithing in order to make a living. Unfortunately, a fire in 1964 destroyed several older buildings leaving only a few historical sites behind including a 17th century private school, the home of William Pedro, and Bishop Forge’s blacksmith shop.

Preserving history

The preservation and protection of Sandy Ground is extremely important as it contains the only known intact 18th century cemetery in America. The site was discovered in 1992 during construction digging in preparation for an office building in Lower Manhattan. All though the Rossville Fire destroyed most of the original houses you will still be able to see the remnants of the original settlement with your Staten Island Car Rental.

Visiting the museum

The Sandy Ground Historical Society contains a wealth of materials related to the historical town of Staten Island. Among the Sandy Ground Historical Society’s permanent collection includes letters, film, photographs, art, rare books, and quilts. However, you will definitely want to check out the can of Tettersalve when you visit with your Staten Island Car Rental. This rare can is a beauty product manufactured by the legendary Madame C.J. Walker. Another highlight of the museum’s collection is a letter from W. E. B. DuBois.

Interesting times at the Sandy Ground Museum

You will never be bored when you visit with your Staten Island Car Rental. Traveling with kids? No problem! The Sandy Ground Historical Society offers arts and crafts sessions, and a musical heritage series. There is also an ongoing quilting workshop that teaches students traditional African – American quilts.

Before you go…

The Sandy Ground Historical Society is located on 1538 Woodrow Road. The museum is open in the spring from Tuesday to Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm and winter from Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Admission is $3.00 for seniors and students, $6.00 for adults.

For more information when you visit Sandy Ground Historical Society with your Staten Island Car Rental, check out their website at www.statenislandusa.com/pages/sandy_ground.html or call them at 718 317 5796.

Check out the Brooklyn car rental All Car Rent a Car location at 1941 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11234