Tottenville Historical Society

09/18/2026

Can you identify this "long and winding road"? A recent Google Earth view may help you. (CHECK OUT OUR ADDITIONAL COMMENT, TOO. 🤔)

09/15/2026

Special thanks to Christopher Lane for sharing this 1963 event flyer for the 123rd Precinct Youth Council Variety Show. So much talent in the community!

The Youth Council organized in the 1940s, then spearheaded by Patrolman William White and Mrs. Louise Thompson. It dissolved in 1965, evolving into the NYPD 123rd Precinct Community Council.

09/13/2026

We rarely post old Staten Island Advance clippings but this ad caught our attention while researching the Matheson Hardware Store, 175 Main St., Tottenville. Look at those 1928 prices! And... nappies?!😅

09/11/2026

09/10/2026

SAVE THE DATE! The life and works of master sculptor George T. Brewster, former resident of the H.H. Biddle House, Tottenville. More details to come!

09/09/2026

Calling all veterans who served from the South Shore! We proudly added 34 men and women to the Veterans Honor Roll this past month. Are you, your family or friends recorded?

Fill out the form on our website or email us and we'll send you one.

We thank you for your service. ❤️🤍💙 🇺🇸

09/07/2026

After months (no... years!) of delay, the Tottenville Pool opened at Joline Ave. and Hylan Blvd. in July 1971 as part of NYC Department of Parks and Recreation.

Prior, the , a family membership club, was the closest outdoor swimming facility. It organized in 1958 with Edward Borna, Robert McEwan, Gene Drill, Edward Daniels, George Robinson, Mary Brassel, and others.

09/03/2026

House of the Month: 579 Craig Ave., Tottenville
This well‑preserved, late‑19th‑century American Victorian residence was built ca. 1882 for A. Sylvester Joline, a wealthy oyster planter. A member of the prominent Joline family, Sylvester was appointed in 1887 by the governor of NY to the newly organized State Fish Commission. The Commission's charge was to sell oyster franchises and help regulate the industry which had changed drastically from natural growth to artificial propagation oyster beds.

The 140+ year-old house retains several hallmark features including a steep gabled roof, ornate porch woodwork (note the restoration of the porch posts currently underway), contrasting trim, and a distinctive arched gable window that place it in the Queen Anne and Folk Victorian family of styles.

We think you will agree that this stunning historic house is an asset to the Tottenville community.