Among the oldest homes in New York City,

Bowne House was built c. 1661 by John Bowne, who emigrated from England to Boston in 1649 and settled in Flushing, Queens, when New York was under Dutch rule. His family prospered in America: the multiple generations born and raised in the house produced businessmen, horticulturists, educators and politicians.

Over the course of 300 years, the family left its mark on American culture, participating in events of both regional and national significance - starting with John Bowne’s courageous defense of religious freedom in 1662 and continuing with subsequent generations’ abolitionist activities and participation in the Underground Railroad.

The Bowne House Historical Society was founded in 1945 by a group of local Flushing residents for the sole purpose of purchasing the house and opening it to the public as a museum in 1947.