Welcome to the Conference House, a site steeped in the rich tapestry of American history, located at the southernmost tip of Staten Island in the Tottenville neighborhood. This stone manor, also known as the Billop House, was built before 1680 by Captain Christopher Billopp, a former Royal Navy officer. His naval prowess reportedly won him this land, as legend has it, by circumnavigating Staten Island within a single day, thus securing it for New York rather than New Jersey.
One of the most significant events in the history of the Conference House was the Staten Island Peace Conference of September 11, 1776. This was a pivotal yet ultimately unsuccessful attempt to negotiate an end to the burgeoning American Revolutionary War. The meeting was attended by three prominent figures from the Continental Congress: Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Edward Rutledge, who met with British Admiral Lord Howe. Despite the intense discussions, the peace terms proposed by Howe were deemed unacceptable by the American delegates, leading to the continuation of the conflict.
The Billop family, staunch Loyalists, played a crucial role during the Revolutionary War. Christopher Billop, the great-grandson of the original builder, held the rank of Colonel in the British forces and was actively involved in military actions against the Patriots. His allegiance to the Crown left a lasting impact on the house and its history.
As time passed, the Conference House transitioned from a private residence to a public landmark. In 1926, it was saved from demolition by a group of concerned citizens and was later designated as a National and New York City Landmark. Today, it stands as a museum, offering a glimpse into life during the colonial era with its well-preserved architecture and period furnishings.
Visitors can explore the Conference House Park, which surrounds the historic house, offering scenic views of Raritan Bay and walking trails that enhance the historical experience. Archaeological finds in the area reveal its long history of habitation, including evidence of Native American presence thousands of years before European settlers arrived.
The Conference House serves as a poignant reminder of the complex history of Staten Island and the broader narrative of the American Revolution. As you walk through its storied rooms, imagine the conversations that once filled the air, echoing the hopes and challenges of a young nation in search of its identity.
