The New York Historical Society is a rich cultural resource located in a beautiful landmark building overlooking Central Park in New York City. (Take the B or C subway to 81 Street). It is a museum and a preeminent independent research library dedicated to presenting exhibitions and public programs relating to the history of New York City and state. Open year round, it attracts all types of visitors, school groups and researchers.
I've attended numerous conferences and events here and always found it to be a source of great information. The Society has a number of spaces to entertain large groups, including a 320-seat theater and my favorite, a spectacular beaux arts library (with 50 foot ceilings, no less).
Current exhibitions at the Society include:
The Games We Played (until December, 2006). A fascinating look at board games (some dating back to 1890) with a rotating collection every four months.
Legacies: Contemporary Artists Reflect on Slavery: a riveting look at slavery through the eyes of various artists, including Faith Ringgold, Fred Wilson and others (just opened and available until January 2007)
Permanent Exhibit: Slavery in New York; a critically acclaimed installation that tells the story of slavery in New York from as far back to the early 17th century. A must see.
Nature and the American Vision: The Hudson River School; a three year rotating exhibit of more than 100 famous oil paintings by artists of the School (through February 2007).
Visit one or all of the exhibitions and the Library, Tuesday through Saturday from 10AM-5PM (check the website for any special event closings); no Saturday hours in the summer. The Society's facilities including the galleries, library auditorium are wheelchair accessible and services are available for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing. Enjoy a snack in the cafe which is deliciously catered by Eli Zabar and don't forget to visit the Society Museum Store.
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