2 W. 77th Street at Central Park West
(212) 873-3400
Inside Tips
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This museum located just a few
steps from the Museum of Natural History is one of the best places
in New York to learn about the city’s interesting history.
Opened in 1804, the New York Historical Society is an excellent
research library as well as the oldest museum in the city. There
are over 6 million artifacts in the collection including
photographs, newspapers, maps, paintings, books, silver,
engravings, etc.
The focus of the displays is
definitely upon New York, but you’ll also get a general sense of
American history, art and culture. Items in the permanent
collection demonstrate New York’s influence on the rest of the
nation while also identifying the origins of these trends. Items
in the permanent collection include a collection of Louis Comfort
Tiffany lamps, George Washington’s inaugural chair and
photographs by John Albok.
The pride of the collection is 432
of the 435 original watercolors done by John James Audubon for his
famous book, Birds of America. Other notable works can be found in
the Luman Reed Gallery 
on the second floor. It contains numerous
works by the Hudson River School including Asher Durand and
Frederic Church. Don’t miss Thomas Cole’s series of paintings The
Course of Empire.
Besides it’s permanent
collection, the New York Historical Society also has rotating
temporary exhibits on display. Free tours are available daily at
1PM and 3PM.
