HarborSides for March and April from the National Parks of New York Harbor
March/April 2009
Harbor Sides is a bimonthly compilation of park happenings and story ideas from the National Parks of New York Harbor. A new edition will be posted the first full week of May, July, September, November, January and March at http://www.nps.gov/npnh/parknews/index.htm. Just click on Harbor Sides to access the list. You will also be able to peruse past issues of Harbor Sides there.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
In honor of Women’s History Month, the National Parks of New York Harbor sites are offering an array of special programming that celebrates the roles women have played on both local and national stages.
* Castle Clinton, Battery Park: Come on March 16 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for “Victorians: The Truth Beneath It All,” a step-by-step illustration of women’s clothing during the 19th Century. Clothing historian Christine Scott demonstrates the mysteries of the lady’s wardrobe from shift and stockings through hoops and skirts to hat and gloves. Admission is free but, reservations are required. Call
212-344-7220 for more information or to reserve a place.
* Federal Hall, 26 Wall Street, Manhattan: Learn about “The Women of Early NYC” on March 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The day’s activities will include costumed re-enactors and a series of talks on topics related to the roles women played throughout New York City’s early history. The National Archives and Record Administration will also be on hand along with representatives from other NYC museums and historic sites to further investigate the impact women have had on the city.
* St. Paul’s Church, 897 South Columbus Avenue, Mt. Vernon: “Anne Hutchinson, Abigail Adams and Eleanor Roosevelt – in dance” will be staged on March 14 at 1:30 p.m. The world renowned Ajkun Ballet Theatre will present a special dance sequence evoking the lives of three prominent women associated with St. Paul’s church – Anne Hutchinson, Abigail Adams and Eleanor Roosevelt.
* Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace, 28 East 20th Street, Manhattan: On March 21 at 11:45 a.m., acclaimed author Betty Boyd Caroli will give a presentation of “The Roosevelt Women on Their Own.” The lecture will explore how the Roosevelt women wrote on politics and art, were elected to office and became polished,sought-after speakers. After the presentation, tour Theodore Roosevelt’s childhood home and discover how he was influenced by the women around him during his early life. Admission is $3 per person, which includes the park’s entrance fee and a house tour. Seating is limited and reservations are required. For more information, call (212) 260-1616.
Presidential Powers
The National Parks of New York Harbor have many sites that have shaped or been touched by the American Presidency. This year, as the United States marks another Presidential first, the following National Parks are offering some very special programming that reflects the men who laid the groundwork for what our nation is today.
* St. Paul’s Church, 897 South Columbus Avenue, Mt. Vernon: Uncover “Washington’s Spies” at 2 p.m. on April 11. Acclaimed historian Alexander Rose will delve into the world of Revolutionary War espionage, exploring the intrigue of a dedicated group of spies in the New York area who supplied Washington with crucial information during the War of American Independence. A reception follows. Visitors are also encouraged to experience the new exhibit, “St. Paul’s and the Presidents,” which details five presidents’ ties to the tiny church.
* General Grant, 122nd Street and Riverside, Manhattan: On April 27, The National Park Service will commemorate the 187th anniversary of the birth of Ulysses S. Grant. Traditionally, the Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy presents a wreath on behalf of the President of the United States of America. Planned festivities include a program with costumed re-enactors, fife and drum music, as well as speeches by local officials and members of the Grant family.
* Federal Hall, 26 Wall Street, Manhattan: On April 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., help the National Park Service commemorate the 220th anniversary of the inauguration of President George Washington at this site. Costumed re-enactors and representatives from the National Archives and Records Administration will be on hand to offer insights into the first official days of the Presidency in addition to special Ranger-led talks.
