Randall Manor, Staten Island: A Historic Neighborhood

Randall Manor is a charming neighborhood located on the North Shore of Staten Island, New York. The neighborhood is bounded by Bard Avenue to the west, Henderson Avenue to the north, Forest Avenue to the south, and Lafayette Avenue to the east. It is a historic neighborhood that dates back to the 19th century and is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and friendly community.

Residents of Randall Manor enjoy the best of both worlds. The tranquility of a close-knit community and the convenience of proximity to major commercial areas and transportation hubs, provide easy access to the amenities and opportunities of the greater New York City metropolitan area. The neighborhood’s abundance of parks and green spaces further contribute to its appeal, making it a sought-after oasis for those seeking a balanced, suburban lifestyle.

Discover the charm and convenience of Randall Manor – your perfect suburban sanctuary on Staten Island.

History of Randall Manor

Early Settlement

Randall Manor’s history dates back to colonial times, and it is named after Captain Robert Randall, a prominent landowner in the area during the 18th century. The land on which Randall Manor stands was originally used for farming and was eventually divided into smaller parcels for residential use. The neighborhood’s early residents were mostly farmers and fishermen.

20th Century Development

In the early 20th century, Randall Manor experienced significant development with the construction of many large homes and mansions. The neighborhood was known for its grand architecture and beautiful views of the New York Harbor. During this time, the neighborhood became a popular destination for wealthy New Yorkers looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Many of the homes built during this time still stand today and are a testament to the neighborhood’s rich architectural history.

Modern Era

In the modern era, Randall Manor remains a vibrant and diverse community. The neighborhood is home to a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. Its proximity to the Staten Island Ferry makes it an attractive location for commuters looking to access Manhattan quickly and easily. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, which offers residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors and take in the neighborhood’s natural beauty.

Overall, Randall Manor’s rich history, beautiful architecture, and diverse community make it a unique and special place to call home.

Geography

Location

Randall Manor is a neighborhood located on the North Shore of Staten Island, one of the five boroughs of New York City, United States. The neighborhood is bound by Bard Avenue to the West, Henderson Avenue to the North, Forest Avenue to the South, and Lafayette Avenue to the East. It is situated along Kill Van Kull, which separates Staten Island from New Jersey.

Topography

Randall Manor is located on a hill overlooking New York Harbor, providing residents with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The neighborhood’s topography is characterized by steep hills and winding streets, which can make driving and walking challenging at times. However, the area’s unique topography also gives it a sense of character and charm that is hard to find in other parts of Staten Island.

The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, Silver Lake Park, and Clove Lakes Park. These parks offer residents a chance to enjoy nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Overall, Randall Manor’s location and topography make it a unique and desirable place to live for those who value natural beauty and a sense of community.

Architecture

As a historic and residential neighborhood, Randall Manor boasts a diverse range of architectural styles. From grand mansions to modest bungalows, the neighborhood’s buildings reflect its development over time.

Historic Buildings

Randall Manor is home to several historic buildings, including the Randall Manor House, a Federal-style mansion built in 1835 by Captain Robert Richard Randall. The house is now a New York City landmark and serves as the headquarters of the Staten Island Historical Society. Another notable building is the Staten Island Museum, which is housed in the former Staten Island Academy building. The museum’s collection includes over half a million artifacts and specimens, and it hosts a variety of exhibits and educational programs throughout the year.

Residential Styles

The residential architecture in Randall Manor is just as diverse as its historic buildings. Many of the homes in the neighborhood were built in the early 20th century and feature architectural styles such as Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and Arts and Crafts. The neighborhood also has a number of mid-century modern homes, which were built in the 1950s and 1960s. These homes often feature clean lines, open floor plans, and large windows that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.

In addition to its historic and residential buildings, Randall Manor also has several public spaces that showcase its architecture. For example, the neighborhood is home to the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, which features a variety of historic buildings and gardens. The center offers a range of cultural and educational programs, including art exhibits, theater performances, and horticulture classes.

Overall, the architecture of Randall Manor reflects its rich history and diverse community. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful design, the neighborhood’s buildings are sure to impress.

Demographics

As a resident of Randall Manor, Staten Island, I have observed that the neighborhood is diverse, with a mixture of different ethnicities and cultures. In this section, I will provide an overview of the population trends and cultural diversity of Randall Manor.

Population Trends

According to Point2Homes, the population of Randall Manor is 5,042, with a population density of 10,240 people per square mile. The median age of residents is 38 years old, which is slightly higher than the median age of Staten Island, which is 37 years old.

In terms of gender, there are slightly more females than males in Randall Manor, with females making up 51.3% of the population. The majority of residents are White (78.5%), followed by Hispanic (9.2%), Asian (7.1%), and Black (4.5%) individuals.

Cultural Diversity

Randall Manor is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities. According to NeighborhoodScout, the neighborhood has a diverse population, with a mix of Italian, Irish, German, and Polish ancestry. Additionally, there are also residents of Puerto Rican, Mexican, and Asian descent.

The neighborhood is home to a variety of religious institutions, including churches, synagogues, and mosques. Some of the most popular places of worship in Randall Manor include St. Roch’s Church, the Congregation B’nai Jeshurun, and the Albanian Islamic Cultural Center.

Overall, the population of Randall Manor is diverse, with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities. The neighborhood is a welcoming and inclusive community, where residents of all backgrounds can feel at home.

Parks and Recreation

As a resident of Randall Manor, I can attest to the abundance of parks and public spaces in the neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to play sports with friends, there’s something for everyone.

Randall Manor Park

One of the highlights of the neighborhood is Randall Manor Park. This small but well-maintained park is located on Castleton Avenue between Davis and Arlo Roads. It features a playground for children, a basketball court, and a small grassy area for picnics or just lounging in the sun. The park is a popular spot for families with young children and is often filled with the sounds of laughter and play.

Public Spaces

In addition to Randall Manor Park, several other public spaces in the neighborhood are worth exploring. Allison Pond Park, located on Prospect Avenue, is a peaceful oasis with a picturesque pond where visitors can fish or watch turtles and egrets. The park also features a walking trail and a playground for children.

Another great public space in the neighborhood is Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. This 83-acre park features several gardens, including a Chinese Scholar’s Garden, a Rose Garden, and a Healing Garden. The park also includes several museums and galleries, including the Staten Island Museum and Staten Island Children’s Museum. Visitors can attend art exhibitions, theater performances, and science programs throughout the year.

Overall, Randall Manor is a great neighborhood for those who love spending time outdoors. With its many parks and public spaces, there’s always something to do and see.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dining options are available in Randall Manor?

• Randall Manor is home to several dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the popular restaurants in the area include Randall Manor Tavern, a cozy gastropub that serves American fare, and Bayou, a Cajun and Creole restaurant that offers a taste of New Orleans. For those who prefer Italian cuisine, there’s Da Piera, a family-owned restaurant that serves homemade pasta and other traditional dishes.

How does the real estate market in Randall Manor compare to other Staten Island neighborhoods?

• Randall Manor is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Staten Island, thanks to its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Manhattan. The real estate market in Randall Manor is competitive, with properties selling quickly and often above asking price. However, compared to other affluent neighborhoods in Staten Island, such as Todt Hill and Lighthouse Hill, the median home price in Randall Manor is relatively affordable.

What is the historical significance of Randall Manor?

• Randall Manor has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when it was home to Sailors’ Snug Harbor, an old-age home for sailors. The neighborhood was later developed into a residential area with grand Greek-revival-style homes. Today, many of these historic homes have been preserved and are a testament to the neighborhood’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Which schools serve the Randall Manor community?

• Randall Manor is served by several public and private schools, including P.S. 35, a highly-rated elementary school, and St. Peters High School for Boys, a Catholic high school. The neighborhood is also home to Staten Island Academy, a private school that offers education from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade.

What are the public transportation options in Randall Manor?

• Randall Manor is well-connected to the rest of Staten Island and Manhattan via public transportation. The neighborhood is served by several bus routes, including the S40, S44, and S46, which provide easy access to the Staten Island Ferry and other parts of the island. Several express buses run to Manhattan, making it easy for commuters to get to work.

What parks and recreational facilities can be found in Randall Manor?

• Randall Manor is home to several parks and recreational facilities that offer residents opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The neighborhood is located near Clove Lakes Park, a 191-acre park that features lakes, walking trails, and a playground. There’s also Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, an 83-acre park that includes several museums, gardens, and historic buildings.