Tottenville Historical Society

10/20/2026

Gone but Not Forgotten: Artistry That Endures
The first selection in this series is from the Society's Art Collection, titled "New York Harbor," created by Lillian E. Bieser (d. 1987) in 1968. Lillian, a lifelong resident of Richmond Valley, enjoyed painting with oils and was a recipient of the Weissglass Award, presented by the Staten Island Museum.

10/19/2026

When the clock was first installed in the 1990s, its purpose was simple: to embellish the streetscape. It was part of a local improvement plan organized by merchants and the Tottenville Local Development Corp., headed by Paul Kidder. Paul was the "unity" in the community; always looking to make the quality of life better in Tottenville for everyone. We gathered this past Saturday to honor not only those who were taken from us, but also the families who carry their memory, and the neighbors who have kept this site meaningful for 25 years. We honor the way our community has chosen to remember -- publicly, respectfully and with purpose.

10/17/2026

Spend a chilly afternoon inside the Biddle House! Open 12-4 today.

10/12/2026

Join us this Saturday, Oct. 17, 12-4 pm, for the exhibition opening spotlighting the life and works of renowned sculptor and former Biddle House resident, George T. Brewster. Known for his portraits and war memorials, Brewster founded the modeling class at Cooper Union in 1900 and taught there for 33 years. Some of his greatest artistic achievements include the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Indianapolis; the Independent Man atop the Rhode Island State House; and 23 works in Vicksburg National Park.

At 2pm the Brewster Gallery will be dedicated at the Biddle House as a permanent tribute to his achievements and commitment to the arts.

See you on the 17th!

10/07/2026

10/06/2026

Remembering window shopping at Segman's! Before online shopping, there was local window shopping where you could find the latest seasonal clothing styles... whether you were looking to buy, or just to look. 👀The holiday displays were the best! When it opened in 1948 at 242 Main St. Tottenville, the store featured women's, children's and infant's clothing.

Segman's was owned and operated by Lillian and Bernard Segman. They also owned Harry's Department Store in Great Kills. We recently learned that Bernie, a B-17 bomber pilot during World War II, was shot down over Germany in June 1944 and held a POW for a year. It was a profound discovery.

The Tottenville Main St. store closed in 1985. Today we fondly remember Bernie, Lillian and browsing for fun at Segman's.

Photo: 1979

09/30/2026

Good things are coming up at the H.H. Biddle House! We hope to see you then!

09/18/2026

Can you identify this "long and winding road"? A recent Google Earth view may help you. (CHECK OUT OUR ADDITIONAL COMMENT, TOO. 🤔)

09/15/2026

Special thanks to Christopher Lane for sharing this 1963 event flyer for the 123rd Precinct Youth Council Variety Show. So much talent in the community!

The Youth Council organized in the 1940s, then spearheaded by Patrolman William White and Mrs. Louise Thompson. It dissolved in 1965, evolving into the NYPD 123rd Precinct Community Council.