Mid Island on Staten Island in Richmond County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Matron's House
Completed: 1846
Architect: Frederick Diaper
Local legend has it that the Matron at Sailors' Snug Harbor ran a very strict household. The Matron managed the female staff, who did laundry, cooked meals, and took care of the sailors who lived there. The women lived together in the lodge-style Matron's House, where she would not tolerate any fraternizing between them and the sailors.
However, in the 1860s, the Matron herself became enmeshed in a considerable scandal. Tragedy struck and created one of Snug Harbor's most fascinating urban legends and ghost stories. The tale involves an illicit love affair and a scandalous murder. This chilling subject is the focus of popular tours in autumn and around Halloween.
Erected by Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden; NYC & Company Foundation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Industry & Commerce • Women.
Location. 40° 38.606′ N, 74° 6.15′ W. Marker is on Staten Island, New York, in Richmond County. It is on Mid Island. It is on Chapel Road east of Gazebo Road, on the right when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1000 Richmond Ter, Staten Island NY 10301, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in New York City. It is also in the American Mid-Atlantic. Globally, it is in North America and the Western World. Historically, it finds itself in what was once one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance
this page online
Other markers no longer nearby. Carl Grillo Glass House (was about 300 feet away but has been replaced with another marker now near it); Music Hall (was about 400 feet away but has been replaced with another marker now near it).
Credits. This page was last revised on February 8, 2026. It was originally submitted on February 8, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 49 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 8, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
