Parks unveils map of historic houses

Forget maps to the stars’ homes that they sell in Hollywood. The Department of Parks and Recreation along with the Historic House Trust, are thrilled to present a new map and guide to 22 of the most historic houses throughout New York City.
The houses are scattered throughout the five boroughs. Several offer tours that provide insight into the families that lived there and the exciting and sometimes mysterious histories of the houses themselves.
For example, the Edgar Allan Poe cottage in the Bronx is a historic house that serves as a spectacular and appropriate reflection of Poe’s late years spent there. In addition, the Merchant’s House Museum in lower Manhattan offers an interesting look into 19th century America, while entertaining the kids with the tale of a ghost haunting the ancient home.
Hitting a little closer to home, the Queens County Farm Museum in Floral Park is one of the city’s last operating farms and as such, offers quite a few educational demonstrations, including some in historic farming techniques, open hearth cooking, and animal care.
The free guide and map allow New York City residents to explore different historic houses conveniently grouped by location and theme. In addition, “Copies of the Touring Map & Guide will be available at local museums, including 17 of the Historic House Trust sites, The History Channel kiosk in City Hall Park, NYC & Co. headquarters, City Store, and recreation and visitor centers in parks throughout the five boroughs.”
Framing the importance of the guide, Therese Braddick, Historic House Trust Executive Director said, “This concise yet informative guide includes each of the houses’ individual stories along with a timeline of events that illustrates their roles in the larger history of New York City and America from 1652 through today.”