Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House facts for kids
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Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House
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Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House
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 Location in New York City
Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1476 Richmond Road, Staten Island, New York |
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| Built | ca. 1662 |
| Architectural style | Domestic vernacular |
| NRHP reference No. | 76001269 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | January 1, 1976 |
The Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House is a very old and special building. It is located on Staten Island, New York. This house is built in a style called Dutch Colonial. It is the oldest building still standing on Staten Island.
Contents
History of the Old House
Who Built the 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 New Amsterdam (which is now New York City) in 1661. He was looking for a safe place to live. He had to leave Europe because people were being treated badly for their religion.
In the same year, Pierre Billiou helped start a town called Oude Dorp. This name means "Old Town" in Dutch. Today, it is known as Old Town. Soon after, he received land on Staten Island. He built the first part of this stone house around the year 1662.
Changes Over Time
Pierre's daughter, Martha Billiou (1652–1736), later owned the house. She lived there with her husband, Thomas Stillwell. He was a wealthy landowner. Around 1680, Thomas Stillwell made the house much bigger.
After Thomas passed away, Martha married again. Her second husband was Rev. David de Bonrepos. Martha's family, the Brittons, owned the house for many years. They kept it until the mid-1700s.
In 1758, a new family bought the house. This was the Perine family. They owned the house for a very long time, until 1913. That's why the house has three names: Billiou, Stillwell, and Perine.
What the House Looks Like
The Billiou–Stillwell–Perine House has a unique look. It has a roof covered with shingles that slopes down. Inside, you can see a large fireplace. It has a big stone area for fires. The ceiling also has very large wooden beams.
Today, the house is owned by Historic Richmond Town. This group helps protect old buildings. Sometimes, you can visit the house. It is open to the public on certain days or by special arrangement.
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
