Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House facts for kids
|
Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House
|
|
Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House
|
|
 Location in New York City
Location in New York
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 1476 Richmond Road, Staten Island, New York |
|---|---|
| Built | ca. 1662 |
| Architectural style | Domestic vernacular |
| NRHP reference No. | 76001269 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | January 1, 1976 |
The Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House is a very old house on Staten Island, New York. It was built in a style called Dutch Colonial, which means it looks like houses from the Netherlands. It is the oldest building still standing on Staten Island!
Contents
The House's Long History
Who Built This Old House?
The house was first built by a man named Pierre Billiou. He was a Huguenot, which means he was a French Protestant. Pierre came to a place called New Amsterdam (which is now New York City) in 1661. He was looking for a safe place because his religion caused him trouble in Europe.
In 1661, Pierre Billiou helped start a settlement called Oude Dorp, or Old Town. Soon after, he received a piece of land on Staten Island. He built the first stone part of this house around the year 1662.
How the House Grew Over Time
Pierre's daughter, Martha (who lived from 1652 to 1736), later inherited the property. She lived there with her husband, Thomas Stillwell. Thomas was a wealthy landowner. Around 1680, he made the house bigger.
After Thomas passed away, Martha married her second husband, Rev. David de Bonrepos, in 1711. They also lived in the house.
Later Owners of the House
Martha and Thomas's family, the Brittons, owned the house until the middle of the 1700s. In 1758, a new family, the Perines, bought the house. The Perine family owned this historic home for a very long time, until 1913.
What the House Looks Like Today
The Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House has a special roof that slopes down and is covered with shingles. Inside, it has a large stone fireplace without a mantel, called a jambless fireplace. The ceiling has very big wooden beams.
Today, the house is owned by Historic Richmond Town. This organization helps preserve old buildings and history. Sometimes, the Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House is open for people to visit. You might need to check their schedule or make an appointment to see inside this amazing old building.
More to Explore
- List of the oldest buildings in the United States
- List of the oldest buildings in New York
- List of New York City Designated Landmarks in Staten Island
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Richmond County, New York
