Matthewis Persen House Museum
Explore centuries of history at the Matthewis Persen House Museum, showcasing Kingston's evolution from 1661 through five distinct architectural phase...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More likely to see reenactors
Matthewis Persen House Museum
Best Time
More likely to see reenactors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of history at the Matthewis Persen House Museum, showcasing Kingston's evolution from 1661 through five distinct architectural phases.
"A free, unique historical gem offering a chronological journey through Kingston's past. "
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without any entry fee. Donations are welcome to support preservation efforts. :moneybag:
🕰️ Check Hours Before You Go
Opening days and times can vary, so it's best to confirm before your visit. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Oldest Stone Structures
Intersection of John and Crown Streets
Stand on a corner where four original stone structures, predating the Revolutionary War, still stand.
Chronological Phases of History
Throughout the house
Explore the house presented in five numbered phases, from 1661 to 1922, showcasing its architectural evolution.
Fascinating Historical Artifacts
Display cases within the house
See a diverse collection of artifacts, including pottery, shoes, oyster shells, and even an ivory domino.
Marks of History
Above a doorway
Discover visible burn marks from the 1777 fire, a tangible reminder of the house's resilience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big History
Uncover Kingston's Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without any entry fee. Donations are welcome to support preservation efforts. :moneybag:
🕰️ Check Hours Before You Go
Opening days and times can vary, so it's best to confirm before your visit. :clock:
📚 Explore the Stockade District
After your visit, wander through the surrounding historic Stockade District and see other old buildings. :housewithgarden:
☕ Nearby Coffee & Books
A book and coffee/beer store is conveniently located across the street. Perfect for a post-visit treat! :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without any entry fee. Donations are welcome to support preservation efforts. :moneybag:
🕰️ Check Hours Before You Go
Opening days and times can vary, so it's best to confirm before your visit. :clock:
📚 Explore the Stockade District
After your visit, wander through the surrounding historic Stockade District and see other old buildings. :housewithgarden:
☕ Nearby Coffee & Books
A book and coffee/beer store is conveniently located across the street. Perfect for a post-visit treat! :coffee:
📜 Ask About Document Preservation
Don't miss the video on document preservation and explore the upstairs rooms for more insights. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Matthewis Persen House Museum for its free admission and the unique, chronological presentation of its history, allowing for a deep dive into Kingston's past. The collection of artifacts and the surrounding historic district are also highlighted as significant draws. Some visitors note that checking opening hours is crucial due to potentially limited availability.
"The Persen House is a unique historic house located in Kingston, NY. The earliest parts of the house date back to 1661. Over the years different owners added different additions to the house. The house is named after Matthewis Person (1739-1810) who resided in the house longer than any other person.
The house is located at the intersection of John and Crown streets. Each of the four stone structures at this intersection pre-date the Revolutionary War. The house was burned in 1661 and 1777 in two different wars. It is possible to see the burn marks from 1777 above one of the doors.
This house is presented much differently than other historic houses. Each part of the house is numbered in chronological phases. Phase 1 is the oldest part dating back to 1661. Phase 5 is the youngest part of the house dating back to 1922. In each room a description of the room is given and artifacts from the house’s history are presented in different display cases. Some of the artifacts presented include plates, glass items, toothbrushes, oyster shells, pottery, leather shoes, and even an ivory domino.
The house has a variety of brochures, guides, and books that describe the history of the rooms and artifacts. Whereas other historic sites decorate or furnish the rooms often with recreated historical pieces, this place leaves it up to you to imagine what the rooms were like in their different phases.
Best of all, a historical gem like this is free to the public. When at this house it is nice to look at the surrounding houses of the stockade district. Most of these houses date back a long way. Remarkable historic figures like Sojourner Truth also lived right down the street from this house. Also near the Persen House is the State Senate House historic site, where the first meeting of the NY State Senate was held in 1777. If you like history, the Persen House is a great site to see!"
Ryan Mazierski
"This museum is located on the only corner where the 4 buildings are still made of stone and are about 200 years old each
Persen House is a sample of the living history of Kingston, as the people who take care of it continue to investigate to share more details of everything that this building built and rebuilt in 4 different moments of history have to offer"
Monserrat Ardila
"We received a very warm welcome by a knowledgeable guide to this most historic building in the town of Kingston. There are a great many rooms and interesting artifacts to view, so do make sure to explore the rooms upstairs and watch the video on the preservation of some of the documents.
We were even able to take some colouring books home as souvenirs, which was most generous, as there was no entry charge.
Although the building is a little hidden behind the main shopping streets, it is worth finding, but do check the opening days and times"
Roy Harrow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at the intersection of John and Crown Streets in Kingston, NY. It's situated within the historic Stockade District, easily accessible by car or on foot if you're exploring the area. Parking is generally available on nearby streets.
While the historic nature of the building presents some challenges, efforts have been made to make it as accessible as possible. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
Walking is the best way to explore the Stockade District, allowing you to appreciate the historic architecture and discover hidden gems like the Persen House.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Matthewis Persen House Museum is free to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted to help with the preservation of this historic site.
Opening hours can vary, so it's essential to check the museum's official website or call ahead to confirm their operating days and times before your visit.
While the museum is self-guided, knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often on hand to answer questions and provide insights into the house's history. Special group tours may be available by arrangement.
The museum sometimes hosts special events, including historical reenactments, particularly when revolutionary war reenactors are in the area. These events offer a unique way to experience history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 30 to 40 minutes exploring the house and its exhibits. You can take your time to appreciate the details and read the descriptions.
The museum displays a variety of artifacts unearthed from the house and its history, including plates, glass items, toothbrushes, oyster shells, pottery, leather shoes, and an ivory domino.
The house is uniquely presented in chronological phases, from Phase 1 (1661) to Phase 5 (1922), allowing visitors to understand its architectural and historical development over time.
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors. It's always a good idea to inquire upon arrival if you have specific needs.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted, but it's best to check with staff on-site to confirm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a cafe or restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding downtown Kingston area, just a short walk away.
There's a book and coffee/beer store conveniently located directly across the street from the museum, making it a perfect spot for a refreshment after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic stone buildings, especially the unique intersection, offers great photographic opportunities. Inside, the chronological displays and artifacts can also be visually interesting.
Professional photography or filming may require special permission. It's advisable to contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policies for commercial or professional shoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is free, consider bringing coloring books or sketchpads for kids to engage creatively with the historical setting. The nearby Stockade District is also great for a family stroll, and the coffee shop across the street offers a pleasant break. Keep an eye out for special events like historical reenactments, which can be particularly exciting for children.
📚 History Enthusiasts & Architecture Buffs
The museum's location within the Stockade District further enhances its appeal, allowing for exploration of other historically significant buildings and sites, including the Senate House. The opportunity to see visible burn marks from historical conflicts adds a dramatic layer to the narrative.
🚶 Day-Trippers from NYC
Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby coffee shop for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat. The free admission makes it a budget-friendly addition to your itinerary. Remember to check the opening hours before you go, as they can be limited.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Chronicle of Kingston History
Within each room, you'll find display cases filled with artifacts that offer tangible connections to the past. These aren't just decorative items; they are remnants of daily life, including pottery, glass, personal items like toothbrushes, and even leisure objects like an ivory domino. The museum provides brochures and guides that delve deeper into the history of each room and the significance of the artifacts, encouraging visitors to use their imagination to reconstruct the past.
The house itself has a storied past, having been burned in both 1661 and 1777 during wartime. The visible burn marks above one of the doors serve as a stark reminder of these events. The museum's location is also significant, situated on a corner where four original stone structures, all predating the Revolutionary War, still stand, making it a unique historical nexus.
Exploring the Stockade District
Just a stone's throw away from the Persen House, you'll find other significant historical sites. The Senate House State Historic Site, where the first meeting of the New York State Senate was held in 1777, is nearby. Additionally, the area has connections to notable historical figures, with Sojourner Truth having lived just down the street.
After immersing yourself in history at the Persen House, consider a visit to the book and coffee/beer store located directly across the street. It’s a perfect spot to relax, reflect on what you've learned, and perhaps pick up a local history book. The combination of the Persen House and the surrounding Stockade District offers a comprehensive glimpse into Kingston's foundational years.
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