[PDF] LYONS FAMILY - Museum of the City of New York

What was Seneca village like?

Unlike the shantytowns of what would become southern Central Park, Seneca Village was a safe and stable community; owning a home in mid-19th century New York gave many African American residents the right to vote, as well as a refuge from racism, which plagued other parts of the city.

Who founded Seneca Village?

Seneca Village was founded in 1825 by free Black Americans, the first such community in the city, although under Dutch rule there was a "half-free" community of African-owned farms north of New Amsterdam. At its peak, the community had approximately 225 residents, three churches, two schools, and three cemeteries.

Where is Seneca?

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Seneca reflects the hospitality and beauty of this little corner of our great state.

Did African Americans and Irish immigrants live in Seneca Village?

Both African Americans and Irish immigrants were marginalized and faced discrimination throughout the city. Despite their social and racial conflicts elsewhere, the African Americans and Irish in Seneca Village lived close to each other.