Old Town is one of Staten Islandâs best-kept secrets â a neighborhood rich in colonial history, enduring architecture, and a close-knit community. Founded in 1661 by Dutch settlers as “Oude Dorpe”, Old Town holds the title of Staten Islandâs first permanent European settlement and one of the earliest in New York City.
Today, it offers a unique blend of the historic and modern, with tree-lined streets, charming colonial houses, access to beaches, and strong transportation links to Manhattan.
đ A Brief History
Old Townâs origins date back to Pierre Billiou, a French Huguenot who arrived with Dutch colonists. He built what is now the BilliouâStillwellâPerine House â still standing and known as the oldest house on Staten Island, constructed around 1662.
Key historical sites include:
- đ BilliouâStillwellâPerine House â Dutch Colonial architecture, part of NYC’s historic treasures.
- đŤ Voorlezerâs House â One of the oldest schoolhouses in the U.S., it served as a church, school, and home for a “voorlezer” (Dutch teacher/lay minister).
- đĄ Historic Richmond Town (nearby) â A living history village with preserved buildings from the 17th to early 20th century.
đł Whatâs It Like Living in Old Town?
Old Town is a residential neighborhood that strikes a balance between serenity and accessibility. Homes range from Dutch Colonials and Victorian-era buildings to modern single-family homes. It has a peaceful, suburban vibe with access to nature and history all around.
Key Features:
- Quiet, residential streets
- Proximity to beaches like Midland and South Beach
- Diverse population, with deep Italian-American roots
- Family-friendly environment
- Green spaces and local parks
đ Transportation and Accessibility
Despite its peaceful vibe, Old Town is well-connected:
- đ Staten Island Railway â Old Town Station provides direct access to the Staten Island Ferry and connections to NYC.
- đ Local buses like the S74, S76, S78 run along Hylan Boulevard, offering access to the ferry terminal and other parts of Staten Island.
- đ Quick access to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, leading into Brooklyn and beyond.
đ Culture & Community
Old Town retains a strong sense of community identity. While small in scale, it has deep cultural roots and hosts:
- đźď¸ The Staten Island Museum â Located nearby, it offers exhibits on Staten Islandâs history, natural sciences, and arts.
- đĽ Community events, like block parties, festivals, and historic tours, particularly around Richmond Town and local churches.
- đ Cultural diversity â With influences from Dutch, Irish, Italian, and Eastern European immigrants, the area reflects NYCâs mosaic.
đ Real Estate Snapshot
Old Town is ideal for homebuyers or renters looking for a quieter lifestyle with easy Manhattan access. Youâll find:
- Single-family homes (Colonial, Cape Cod, Ranch styles)
- Some multi-family homes and condos
- Median home prices are more affordable than many Brooklyn or Manhattan neighborhoods
Itâs a great choice for:
- Families
- Retirees
- Young professionals working remotely or commuting via ferry
đ Dining and Local Gems
While not a major dining hub, Old Town has a few neighborhood staples and is close to the foodie-rich areas of Dongan Hills, South Beach, and Midland Beach:
- đ Local pizzerias and Italian bakeries
- â Cozy cafes and delis along Hylan Blvd
- đśââď¸ Easy access to the boardwalk and beachfront eateries
đ§ Final Thoughts: Why Visit or Live in Old Town?
Old Town, Staten Island, is a hidden gem with centuries of history, peaceful streets, family-friendly vibes, and easy access to NYC. Whether you’re a history buff, looking to settle down, or simply planning a weekend Staten Island walking tour, Old Town should be on your map.
đQuick Facts
- Borough: Staten Island
- Zip Code: 10304
- Transit: Old Town Station (SIR), buses on Hylan Blvd
- Highlights: Historic homes, coastal access, Staten Island Museum, quiet residential feel
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