Conference House
7298 Satterlee Street 
Staten Island, New York 10307 
(718) 984-6046 groups
http://conferencehouse.org

Built around 1680, the Billop Manor House was the site of the famous Staten Island Peace Conference. On September 11, 1776, Ben Franklin, John Adams, and Edward Rutledge were invited to a conference by Admiral Lord Howe, Commander of His Majesty's Atlantic Squadron. His intention was to persuade the Colonists to return to the folds of the British Empire. His offer included freedom from reprisal and more of the rights enjoyed by other Englishmen. 

In three hours, the conference was over, leaving Admiral Howe disappointed and concerned over the fate of America, which he was certain would fall. 

Today, while still undergoing restoration, this magnificent two and one-half story fieldstone is open to the public and features beautifully furnished rooms, faithful to Colonial times. Visitors have a chance to experience a bit of the history that helped make our nation great. 

Throughout the year a variety of special events entertain and educate families. With children's programs such as the Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Mother's and Father's Day Crafts workshops, and family titles such as Stained Glass workshop, Watermelon Festival, Annual Art Show and many others, there is always something fun to do at this beautiful site. Programs and events are seasonal, and a calendar can be had for the asking. 

A School Program, suitable for grades 1 through 6 includes a brief discussion of the house and its historic significance and then a choice of one of the following in-depth tours: Exploration: the way houses of the 17th century were built and why; View of Open Rooms: giving a sense of Colonial life in the surroundings of the period; Open Hearth Cooking and Tastings: baking in a Dutch oven and tasting Colonial treats; Candlemaking: hands-on demonstration; Touch and Smell Tours: (in season) tours of the rose and herb gardens; Archeological Information: about the 10,000 year old glacial ridge and Indian artifacts beneath the house. 

Obviously, the program offers a unique educational opportunity to be enjoyed by children and teachers alike. 

Program takes 2 hours, and maximum group size is 35.