Monday, February 25, 2013

Brooklyn Historical Society




Where is it? 128 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn

How do I get there? 2/3/4/5 Train to Borough Hall; A/C/F Train to Jay St

When can I go? Wednesday - Saturday, 12-5pm

How much do I have to shell out to get in? $6 for Adults; $4 for Students and Seniors; Free for Kids

The run-down: The Brooklyn Historical Society is located within a building built in 1881 which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is dedicated to, well, the history of Brooklyn.As per the BHS, they have "the most comprehensive collection of Brooklyn-related materials in existence".


What was cool about the Museum: This is gonna sound weird (because it is), but I really loved the way the museum smelled. (Told you it was weird) You'll understand when you visit. I also loved the Inventing Brooklyn exhibit, created by HIGH SCHOOL students (participating in the Society's Ex Lab program), chronicling hundreds of years of Brooklyn history.



What I could have done without: It was actually hard to find anything I didn't like about the BHS. Admission was reasonable, the exhibits were informative and interesting, the staff was friendly, and the space was welcoming.

Need more info? Here's their website: http://www.brooklynhistory.org

Monday, February 11, 2013

Old Stone House





Where is it? 336 3rd St., Brooklyn (In Washington Park)

How do I get there? F/G Train to 4th Ave; R Train to 9th St

When can I go? Saturday & Sunday 11am - 4pm

How much do I have to shell out to get in? $3

The run-down: Why do we care about a small house in the middle of Brooklyn? Well, most people won't, but I'm a history geek, especially the American Revolution. The Old Stone House was an important location during the Battle of Brooklyn (the first official battle fought after signing the Declaration).



What was cool about the Museum: The exhibit about the Battle of Brooklyn was very thorough, and the staff was courteous and informative. Plus, there are several events throughout the month, so I would check their website to try to catch one.


What I could have done without: The Old Stone House is actually a replica, not the original. The outside is made of materials found when the original site was excavated, but the inside is all new, and very modern (which for me was disappointing)

Need more info? Here's their website: http://theoldstonehouse.org/