Step back in time and explore Rock Hall, a captivating pre-Revolutionary War home located in Lawrence, Long Island. Built in 1767, this exquisite Georgian-style house offers a unique glimpse into 18th-century life. Once the residence of wealthy West Indian plantation owner Josiah Martin and later the Hewlett family, Rock Hall boasts a rich history and stunning architecture that history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike will appreciate.
Alt: The elegant Georgian architecture of Rock Hall Museum, Lawrence, Long Island, showcasing its historical significance.
Deeded to the Town of Hempstead by the Hewlett family in 1948, Rock Hall underwent careful restoration before opening its doors as a museum in 1953. Today, Rock Hall Museum stands as a fully furnished 18th-century house museum, offering guided tours that immerse you in the past. Knowledgeable guides lead you through the meticulously preserved rooms, sharing stories and insights into the lives of the families who once called Rock Hall home.
One of the most fascinating aspects of a visit to Rock Hall is the opportunity to explore its cellar. Venture downstairs to discover the Warming Kitchen, Cold Storage Room, and Wine Cellar, rarely seen working areas that were essential to the functioning of an 18th-century plantation-style home. These spaces offer a unique perspective on the daily life and domestic arrangements of the past.
Alt: An engaging archaeology exhibit in the cellar of Rock Hall Museum, displaying 18th and 19th-century artifacts unearthed during ongoing excavations.
Adding another layer of intrigue to your visit is the museum’s ongoing Archaeology Exhibit Room, also located in the cellar. Here, you can examine a fascinating collection of 18th and 19th-century artifacts unearthed during continuous archaeological excavations on the Rock Hall grounds. This exhibit provides tangible connections to the past, revealing everyday objects and remnants of life from centuries ago.
Beyond guided tours, Rock Hall Museum provides a variety of programs of historic interest, special lectures, and educational programs designed for students. Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or simply seeking an enriching experience, Rock Hall offers something for everyone.
Planning Your Visit to Rock Hall Museum
Rock Hall is open for tours by appointment only, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for each group. To schedule your visit, please call the museum office at (516) 239-1157 to make a reservation. The maximum group size for appointments is 8 visitors, making it perfect for small groups and families.
Rock Hall Museum is conveniently located at 199 Broadway in Lawrence. The museum grounds are open daily until 4 p.m., allowing you to appreciate the exterior and surrounding landscape even outside of tour hours.
For more detailed information about Rock Hall Museum and its facilities, you can visit the Rock Hall Museum page on the Town of Hempstead website.
Support History: Join the Friends of Rock Hall
Enhance your connection to Rock Hall and Long Island history by becoming a member of the Friends of Rock Hall. This independent, non-profit organization works closely with the Rock Hall Museum to support its programs, acquire historical furnishings, and fund important historic research.
Alt: The Friends of Rock Hall logo, representing a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and preserving the historic Rock Hall Museum.
Membership with the Friends of Rock Hall starts at just $25 per individual and offers valuable benefits, including discounts at the Museum Gift Shop and free admission to lectures. Your membership directly contributes to the preservation and enrichment of this significant historical site. Visit the Friends of Rock Hall website to learn more about membership and their vital work.
Program Registration Information
To participate in Rock Hall Museum programs, advance registration is required. Please call (516) 239-1157 to register for programs and confirm availability, as museum space is limited. Payments and memberships can be made by credit card, and reservations are confirmed upon receipt of full payment. Checks should be made payable to “Friends of Rock Hall.”
Discover the captivating history and architectural beauty of Rock Hall Museum. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in Long Island’s rich past.
