Join us for a lecture in the historic Church of St. Andrew in Richmond Town to learn about the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 1964. Staten Island was changed forever. Sewers, schools, roadways, and even the politicians of New York City were not prepared for the onslaught of relocating Brooklyn residents who sought a rural lifestyle. Houses were bought as quickly as they were built. Schools scrambled to find seats for thousands of newly arriving students. The antiquated sewer system of Staten Island could not handle the overload, and there simply wasn’t enough room for all the septic tanks needed. Who were the allies and adversaries of development? Who sought to make a meaningful plan for Staten Island’s future? If you thought you knew it all, you will surely learn more!! Join Pat as she examines how the bridge affected residents and newcomers, and how the borough was forever altered.

Sunday, October 25, 2026, 2 – 3:30 PM

Presentation by Pat Salmon
FOBH Historian and a Curator of History, retired. The Staten Island Museum

THE CHURCH OF ST. ANDREW
40 Old Mill Road, Staten Island, NY 10306
The church is situated at the corner of Old Mill Road and Arthur Kill Road.
Parking lot is on the opposite side of the street by Parish Hall. Park in the lot, and walk across the street.

THIS IS A FREE EVENT

Donations to Friends of Olmsted-Beil House are appreciated.
To register, text: 917-608-6437. Please arrive ten minutes before the start of the program.