Help us provide free and affordable cultural programs in College Point and to preserve the history of the community.
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Our Services & Programs
Adhering to the original charter of The Institute, it is our goal to continue to offer the people of the Metropolitan area, life enhancing cultural, recreational, and educational programs, either free or at a nominal fee. It is also our goal to provide a warm, welcoming and encouraging environment to all who enter through "The Doorway of Opportunity."
News & Events
Stay up to date with all of our latest news and events.
Another Virtual Trip to the Tenement Museum
Join this 6-p minute interactive virtual visit to the Tenement Museum conducted by a Tenement Museum Educator. You’ll “go inside” 97 Orchard Street to visit with the Moore Family, an […]
Read MoreLandmark News October 2020
Landmark News- October 2020 Hello once again from the Cultural Center and Museum at the Poppenhusen Institute . Although recent times have been challenging- things are finally opening up around […]
Read MoreFamily Painting Afternoon For parents and their children (minimum age 7) Participants will be painting nature scenes Where: In the garden of the Poppenhusen Institute 114-04 14th Road College Point When: […]
Read MoreLet’s put some smiles on the faces of the children!
Join us for a fun-filled lively show with Vinny Volta. Looks like magic but it’s science! Demonstration will include: Air pressure, light, sound electricity, motion inertia, magnatism, reactions and energy. […]
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The Poppenhusen Institute
The Poppenhusen Institute was built in 1868 with funds donated by Conrad Poppenhusen, the benefactor of College Point. The original charter specified that it be open to all, irrespective of race, creed or religion, giving people the opportunity to improve their lives either by preparing them for better job or improving their leisure time. The institute housed the Justice of the Peace, the first home of the College Point Savings Bank, German Singing Societies, the first library in the area, a court room, the Sheriff’s Office (2 jail cells remain today), as well as the first free kindergarten in the United States which began here on July 1st,1870.