Tottenville is the southernmost neighborhood in New York State, and Billop Avenue carries the name of Christopher Billopp, whose 17th-century house nearby hosted the failed 1776 peace conference between the British and Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. A block party on Brighton Street puts you inside that oddly historic corner of the city, with Raritan Bay and Conference House Park minutes away. Go for the party, stay for the strangest history in the five boroughs.
What to expect
Expect a quiet residential street closed to cars, with grills, folding tables, a sound system and kids using the roadway. Everything is organized by neighbors, and the setting is suburban in scale. Conference House Park and the Raritan Bay shoreline are a short trip if you want to extend the day.
Good to know
- The block is on Brighton Street near Billop Avenue in Tottenville, Staten Island.
- The Staten Island Railway terminates at Tottenville, reachable via the Staten Island Ferry.
- The street closes under a street activity permit, so park off the block.
- Bring folding chairs and a cooler.
- Conference House Park, with the 17th-century Conference House, is nearby.
- It is a free neighborhood event on a closed public street.
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Common questions
Where is Tottenville?
At the southern tip of Staten Island — the southernmost neighborhood in New York State, on Raritan Bay.
What is the Conference House?
The 17th-century Billopp manor house nearby, site of the unsuccessful 1776 peace conference between British and American delegates.
How do I get there?
Take the Staten Island Ferry and ride the Staten Island Railway to its Tottenville terminus, or drive.
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