Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site is designing an exhibit about the rise of Yonkers as an immigrant city, set for a phased opening beginning in September 2016. From its start as a Lenape fishing village and Dutch patroonship, to the industrious peak of the 1900s, and into modern times, the growth of Yonkers can be attributed to the various ethnic groups that have settled in the area.
The site is seeking local first- and second-generation immigrants to assist with the creation of this exhibit. Interviews will be conducted on an ongoing basis through the remaining months of 2015.
Through oral history interviews, participants will be given a chance to discuss their personal immigration story; translation services are available upon request. Audio and/or visual recordings of participants’ interviews will be on display in the Gothic Chamber at Philipse Manor Hall as part of the exhibit. Following the exhibit’s display, those interviews will be stored permanently in the records at the Westchester Historical Society and Archives. While the immigration stories will not be altered, participants’ names may be changed, if desired.
Participation in the oral history project is free. For additional information or to set up an appointment, please call Philipse Manor Hall’s Public Programs Coordinator, Robert Lee at (914) 965-4027 x102.
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, believed to be the oldest standing building in Westchester County, is located at 29 Warburton Avenue, just blocks from the train station in Yonkers, N.Y.
The historic Manor Hall is regularly open for tours Tuesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 5 pm. For additional information about Philipse Manor Hall, visit http://nysparks.com/historic-sites/37/details.aspx. For information on the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall, visit http://philipsemanorfriends.blogspot.com/.
Photo provided by Friends of Philipse Manor Hall.
Leave a Reply