College Point

Understanding College Point

During the 1850s, factories, homes and regular ferry service changed College Point from farmland into a compact village. Conrad Poppenhusen’s rubber business, worker housing and educational projects were central to that growth. Later industrial uses remain part of the area alongside housing and shops.

Conrad Poppenhusen funded the institute as an educational center for the surrounding working-class community. In 1870 it began a free kindergarten. The building later supported many forms of community use.

Places to explore

• Poppenhusen Institute

  114-04 14th Road

  Look at the historic building, then select a public tour, exhibit or lecture from the operator. Programs depend on enrollment and scheduling; do not assume a daily walk-in museum.

  Read the NYFE place guide

• Herman A. and Malvina Schleicher House exterior

  11-41 123rd Street

  Look for the mansard roof and arched windows from the public street. The house’s circular lot was left when its estate was subdivided. It remains a residential building; no interior or grounds access is offered.

• Hermon A. MacNeil Park

  College Point waterfront

  The city’s 2025 neighborhood assessment identifies this as a local waterfront park. Choose it as a separate outdoor destination rather than expecting access along the whole shoreline. Consult Parks for current entrances and facilities.

Planning a visit

Confirm the selected institute program and check current transit before traveling.

Contact the institute about the selected program, entry arrangements and access needs before traveling.