The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum
In the heart of Rosebank stands the historic home of Antonio Meucci, known for his contributions to the invention of the telephone, and Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian revolutionary hero. This Gothic revival-style residence, built around 1840, became a refuge for these two notable figures in the mid-19th century.
In 1850, Antonio Meucci and his wife Ester rented this house. Not long after, Giuseppe Garibaldi arrived in New York seeking safety due to his involvement in revolutionary activities in Italy. As a key figure in the Italian unification movement, Garibaldi’s efforts to overthrow existing regimes made him a target for political persecution, forcing him to flee his homeland. Meucci welcomed Garibaldi into his home, and the two men worked together in Meucci’s candle factory, creating a bond that would be remembered for generations. In 1854, Garibaldi returned to Italy, where he led military forces in the unification fight, earning international recognition.
After Garibaldi died in 1882, a committee was formed to honor his stay in the United States. By 1884, a commemorative plaque was placed over the front door of the house, with Meucci attending the ceremony. Following Meucci’s death, the house was entrusted to the Italian Community as a tribute to Garibaldi. In 1907, the house was relocated to its present site, and a pantheon was built over it. This pantheon was removed in the early 1950s due to deterioration. The Garibaldi Society handed over the house to the Order Sons of Italy in America in 1919, who have restored and maintained it ever since.
A prominent feature of the museum is the clock tower, designed in the Romanesque Revival style, which was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This architectural style adds to the historical significance of the site, which is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Italian-American history and culture.
Thanks to the cultural department of the Italian Embassy, artifacts from around the world were collected, and in May 1956, the house was opened to the public as The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum. Today, this National Landmark, rumored to be haunted, stands as a celebration of Italian-American heritage, operated by the Order Sons of Italy in America.
Visiting this historic site offers a chance to explore the home of two iconic figures and learn about their significant contributions to history. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that celebrate Italian-American culture, providing a unique experience in a setting that is rumored to be haunted. Additionally, your visit supports ongoing preservation efforts and educational programs at the museum.
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 1 pm to 5 pm, with the last tour at 4:30 pm. Admission is $10 for visitors, and free for members and children under 10. The museum is located at 420 Tompkins Avenue, Staten Island, NY. For more information, you can contact them at 718.442.1608.
