Let’s ride the Staten Island Ferry to hear the greatest New York story never told—the life of Daniel Tompkins. We know Tompkins for the East Village park bearing his name. But this two-time U.S. Vice-President and four-time NYS Governor was the political power behind the abolition of slavery in New York, which celebrates its 200th Anniversary next year. And in the War of 1812, with little or no resources, Governor Tompkins organized, armed, and even financed the defeat of the British in the northeast, preserving New York City, its crucial Harbor, and the Hudson River—when losing those would have destroyed the young, independent United States. At the same time, Tompkins was launching the first Staten Island Ferry (no, it was not Vanderbilt!). So all aboard the ferry for a fascinating story—and a salute to New York’s forgotten hero.
Accessibility
Walker will board the Staten Island Ferry, which is wheelchair accessible, disembark on Staten Island, where the talk will continue, then re-embark for the crossing back to Manhattan.
Location Information
RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.
