Francis the Praying Mantis greets you. He stands tall and proud in front of the Staten Island Children’s Museum. This isn’t just any museum. It’s a place where learning comes alive. It opened in 1976 thanks to community support. The museum’s two buildings were once part of Sailors’ Snug Harbor a complex with a fascinating history.
The main building a 1913 structure now houses the administrative offices the live animal collection the fire truck exhibit and the ‘House About It’ exhibit. It even served as a civil defense shelter during the 1950s. You can still see the old sign on the back. The other building the old snug harbor barn once housed livestock. It’s now home to the food court and the ‘Great Explorations’ exhibits. A modern walkway connects the two creating one amazing museum.
Inside you’ll find nine exciting exhibit areas. Explore ‘House About It’ and discover the secrets of home building. Get up close with fascinating insects and spiders in ‘Bugs and other insects’. The exhibit also features fossils and preserved insects. In ‘Sea of Boats’ you’ll encounter aquatic wonders. Then climb aboard ‘Ladder 11’ a real decommissioned fire truck. Want to be a vet? The ‘Veterinary Clinic’ exhibit teaches all about pet care. ‘Portia’s Playhouse’ awaits with its stage for budding performers. Don’t miss ‘Big Games’ and the ‘Garden Terrace’. And of course ‘Great Explorations’ offers countless opportunities for discovery.
The museum received a generous grant from the Carnegie Corporation in 2005. This supported the creation of the veterinary and pet care exhibit among other wonderful things. It shows the impact the museum has on the community.
The Staten Island Children’s Museum isn’t just a museum. It is a place of wonder exploration and learning. So come in and discover the magic. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Remember to say hello to Francis. He’s always happy to see new visitors.