2026 Past Programs
JANUARY
On YouTube!
Celebrating New Year’s Day 2026 with the Tredwells
Paying social calls on friends and family on the first day of the new year was one of Old New York’s most cherished customs. Join us – virtually – for good cheer to toast the New Year and learn how New Yorkers like the Tredwells celebrated the day.
In this immersive video experience, we’ll go back in time to the mid-19th century to meet the Tredwells and hear how they’ve been decking the house for New Year’s Day and preparing their lists of social calls. Join us as we continue the 19th century tradition of renewing, reviving, and reaffirming friendships that last the whole year through. Watch on YouTube.
Sunday, January 4, 3 p.m.
Guided House Tour: Healthcare in Tredwell Times
Curious about healthcare in the 19th century and the illnesses that affected New Yorkers during that era? On this afternoon tour, we’ll explore the diseases and treatments common in 19th century New York. Drawing from firsthand accounts and historical sources, we’ll learn about major outbreaks of cholera, diphtheria, typhoid fever, and the recorded causes of death within the Tredwell family, along with the types of medical care they might have received. This tour will also highlight how the Civil War spurred significant medical advancements and changed the way physicians and nurses were trained. 60-75 minutes. $20, MHM Members $10.
Tuesday, January 13, 6 p.m.
Virtual Talk: Cabinet Cards, Cartomania and Celebrity in the Tredwell Home
Co-Sponsored by Village Preservation
Join us on Zoom for a talk featuring the Merchant’s House Museum’s photography collection. Intern Katie Jacobson will discuss the rise of carte-de-visites, cabinet cards, and how the Tredwell family participated in the 1860s burgeoning celebrity culture through collecting celebrity photographs. We will discuss the evolution of early photographic mediums, famous photography studios, and how photographs functioned in homes during the late 19th century. Additionally, we will gain insight into two of the Tredwell women and watch them grow up as photograph trends change. Free (suggested donation $10); registration required.
Katie Jacobson is the Education & Public Programs intern at the Merchant’s House Museum. She holds a BA in Art History and Cinema Studies from New York University.
FEBRUARY
Thursday, February 5, 6 p.m.
The Road to Harlem: The Forgotten History of Black Manhattan
Part 1 — Free, “Half-Free,” and Enslaved: Black Life in New Amsterdam
Virtual Talk co-sponsored by Save Harlem Now, Village Preservation, Landmark West, and Black in Preservation
The first enslaved people of African descent to be brought to New Amsterdam were eventually emancipated and granted farmland on and near what is now the Merchant’s House Museum. Join Museum Historian Ann Haddad as she explores the complex story of Black life in the 17th century Dutch settlement, and the free, “half-free,” and enslaved Black people who raised families, established a strong community, and contributed to the development of New York City. Manuel Plaza, adjacent to the Museum, pays tribute to these men and women who settled on what was known as the “Land of the Blacks.” Free.
The Road to Harlem. Long before Harlem, Black New Yorkers were shaping the city’s history, neighborhoods, culture, and institutions. This multi-part series explores that extraordinary story, beginning in 17th century New Amsterdam and continuing through centuries of resilience, community-building, creativity, and struggle. We’ll explore the remarkable free Black settlement known as the “Land of the Blacks,” the vibrant communities of Little Africa in Greenwich Village and the Tenderloin in Midtown, and the storied neighborhood of San Juan Hill, lost to urban renewal and the building of Lincoln Center. Along the way, we’ll uncover how these communities laid the groundwork for what would become Harlem. This series is about rediscovering erased histories, honoring the lives and neighborhoods that came before us, and understanding Harlem not just as a destination — but as part of a much longer road.
Thursday, February 12, 6 p.m.
The Road to Harlem: The Forgotten History of Black Manhattan
Part 2 — Little Africa: Black Life and Community in the South Village
Virtual Talk co-sponsored by Save Harlem Now, Village Preservation, Landmark West, and Black in Preservation
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Greenwich Village, especially in the South Village, was home to a significant free Black population. In the latter half of the 19th century, one of the most notable early settlements was “Little Africa,” centered around present-day Minetta Street and Minetta Lane. This vibrant community included Black-owned businesses, churches, and social institutions. Between the 1880s and early 20th century, this was the most important center of Black life in Manhattan before moving uptown. Join Village Preservation educator Amanda Adams-Louis on this fascinating exploration of one of Manhattan’s most important, but nearly unknown, historic neighborhoods. Free.
The Road to Harlem. Long before Harlem, Black New Yorkers were shaping the city’s history, neighborhoods, culture, and institutions. This multi-part series explores that extraordinary story, beginning in 17th century New Amsterdam and continuing through centuries of resilience, community-building, creativity, and struggle. We’ll explore the remarkable free Black settlement known as the “Land of the Blacks,” the vibrant communities of Little Africa in Greenwich Village and the Tenderloin in Midtown, and the storied neighborhood of San Juan Hill, lost to urban renewal and the building of Lincoln Center. Along the way, we’ll uncover how these communities laid the groundwork for what would become Harlem. This series is about rediscovering erased histories, honoring the lives and neighborhoods that came before us, and understanding Harlem not just as a destination — but as part of a much longer road.
Friday, February 27, 6:30 p.m.
In the Spirit of Science Virtual Program: Can Inanimate Objects be Haunted, Possessed, Cursed?
Reports of paranormal activity are typically focused around either a location, or a person. (Think Merchant’s House! Gertrude!) The idea that inanimate objects can be cursed, or even possessed, has also intrigued — and often terrified — people for centuries.
Annabelle the Doll, of horror movie fame, whom many believe is possessed with a dark entity, was back in the news this summer when her handler died mysteriously while taking her on tour. From haunted paintings to ancient relics to the Hope Diamond, some objects seem to carry an energy that curses anyone who dares to own them. Take Robert the Doll, c. 1904, a 40-inch-tall Steif doll, permanently on view in a museum. Its website reminds people to “Beware the Curse!” if they don’t follow the strict rules when visiting Robert, “the world’s most haunted doll.”
Join Dan and Matilda as they explore this spine-tingling phenomena. Can an inanimate object really hurt people? Are some things better left undisturbed?
Free (suggested donation $10).
MARCH
Sunday, March 15, 3:00 p.m.
In the Footsteps of Bridget Murphy: The Life of an Irish Servant
House Tour co-sponsored by Village Preservation
This “back-stairs” tour tells the heroic story of the Irish women who worked in domestic service in 19th century New York. You’ll visit four floors of period rooms, from the ground floor kitchen to the 4th floor servants’ quarters, experiencing what daily life was really like for the Tredwells’ Irish servants. 75-90 minutes. $20, Free for MHM & Village Preservation Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Tuesday, March 17, 6 p.m.
Death Matters: Mediums and Grief
Virtual Talk
Many people visit mediums in the midst of grief, hoping to connect with lost loved ones for answers and reassurances. Matilda speaks with medium Heather Carlucci about what it is like to work with those actively grieving – how she feels mediums can help, whether peace is truly possible, and even whether she feels such consultations can help or hurt the grieving process.
In the Death Matters series, thanatologist Matilda Garrido interviews those working in the fields of end of life and beyond. Join us for historical perspective, emerging ideas, and open discussion around topics usually hidden.
Heather Carlucci is an internationally renowned psychic medium and medical intuitive. She works extensively with doctors and other health care professionals to find diagnoses undetected by western medicine. With her decade of experience as an entrepreneur, Heather also works with CEOs, creatives, and other leaders to work through psychic blocks and triggers. She lives in NYC.
A period for your questions and answers will follow the program. Free (suggested donation $10).
Saturday, March 21, 3:00 p.m.
In the Footsteps of Bridget Murphy: The Life of an Irish Servant
House Tour co-sponsored by Village Preservation
This “back-stairs” tour tells the heroic story of the Irish women who worked in domestic service in 19th century New York. You’ll visit four floors of period rooms, from the ground floor kitchen to the 4th floor servants’ quarters, experiencing what daily life was really like for the Tredwells’ Irish servants. 75-90 minutes. $20, Free for MHM & Village Preservation Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Sunday, March 22, 1:30 p.m.
Walking Tour: The Tredwells’ World of 19th Century Noho
With the 1825 opening of the Erie Canal, the city’s economy boomed and wealthy merchant families escaped the increasing noise, congestion, and commercialization of the seaport area to move “uptown,” to what is now modern day NoHo, then an exclusive residential enclave. Join us as we explore the Tredwells’ elite neighborhood and discover what life was like for the wealthy merchant class in the mid-19th century. $20, FREE for Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Walking tours are 90 minutes and meet next door to the Merchant’s House in Manuel Plaza.
March 25 to April 5, 12 Performances Only!
Killing an Evening with Edgar Allan Poe: Seance at the Merchant’s House
Presented by Summoners Ensemble Theatre in Association with the Merchant’s House Museum
In 1845, Edgar Allan Poe lived on Amity Street (now West 3rd Street), just blocks from the Merchant’s House. His publication of “The Raven” had brought him instant fame and invitations to the city’s most fashionable literary salons in the city, where he performed his work.
Join John Kevin Jones (A Christmas Carol at the Merchant’s House) in the Merchant’s House Museum’s double parlor for a hauntingly memorable performance of Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” “The Cask of Amontillado,” “The Angel of the Odd” and, of course, “The Raven.” It will be a bone-chilling evening of irrational revenge … obsession and premeditated murder … dismemberment … and the very, very dark. Tickets $65-$75.
Saturday, March 28, 1:30 p.m.
Walking Tour: The Tredwells’ World of 19th Century Noho
With the 1825 opening of the Erie Canal, the city’s economy boomed and wealthy merchant families escaped the increasing noise, congestion, and commercialization of the seaport area to move “uptown,” to what is now modern day NoHo, then an exclusive residential enclave. Join us as we explore the Tredwells’ elite neighborhood and discover what life was like for the wealthy merchant class in the mid-19th century. $20, FREE for Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Walking tours are 90 minutes and meet next door to the Merchant’s House in Manuel Plaza.
APRIL
Tuesday, April 14, and Wednesday, April 15, 12 p.m.
Walking Tour: Floating Palaces on the Waterfront
Sponsored by Village Preservation
Over a hundred years ago, the Hudson River waterfront was the place where New York cemented its place as one of the world’s greatest cities. Cargo, commuters, and international passengers jostled with dock workers, freighters, ferries, railroads, and giant ocean liners. Join us for a walking tour along the waterfront to explore how this dynamic waterfront worked in the age of Titanic, Lusitania, and other floating palaces that once docked there.
Location: Cunard White Star Pier at Pier 54, Pier 54, New York, NY 10014
Free; registration required.
Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m.
House Tour – Exploring a 19th Century Home: Interior Design at the Merchant’s House
Have you ever wanted to know how successful New Yorkers decorated their homes in the mid-19th century? Curious what furniture was in vogue? Window coverings? What floor coverings were used in various rooms? Wonder where and how they purchased their furnishings?
Join expert interior designer and MHM docent extraordinaire Dennis McAvena for an in-depth and behind-the-scenes exploration of the elegant interiors of Merchant’s House. We’ll step back in time as we discuss the specifics and challenges (lighting!) of 19th century interior design, as well as how form follows function, exploring how rooms like the grand double parlor played a role in social entertaining.
This 90-minute tour takes place outside general museum hours, ensuring an exclusive experience for guests. $30; MHM Members $15.
Tuesday, April 21, 6 p.m.
Book Talk – The Battle for Gotham: New York in the Shadow of Robert Moses and Jane Jacobs
Co-Sponsored by Village Preservation
Join us for this special book talk with Roberta Brandes Gratz as she speaks about her acclaimed book The Battle for Gotham: New York in the Shadow of Robert Moses and Jane Jacobs.
In her provocative book, acclaimed urbanist Roberta Brandes Gratz challenges the conventional wisdom on how cities authentically regenerate. Battle For Gotham argues that New York City reached its lowest point after decades of destructive Robert Moses projects, and began an organic regeneration with Moses’s demise and the cessation of his sweeping, federally funded projects that wiped out so much of the city. New York’s turnaround, Gratz illustrates, began with the small, local citizen-led efforts reflecting the urban philosophy of Jane Jacobs.
Location: Willa Cather Room at Jefferson Market Library, 425 6th Ave.
Free, registration required.
Saturday, April 25, 1:30 p.m.
Walking Tour: The Tredwells’ World of 19th Century Noho
With the 1825 opening of the Erie Canal, the city’s economy boomed and wealthy merchant families escaped the increasing noise, congestion, and commercialization of the seaport area to move “uptown,” to what is now modern day NoHo, then an exclusive residential enclave. Join us as we explore the Tredwells’ elite neighborhood and discover what life was like for the wealthy merchant class in the mid-19th century. $20, FREE for Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Walking tours are 90 minutes and meet next door to the Merchant’s House in Manuel Plaza.
Wednesday, April 29, 6 p.m.
Death Matters: Generational Shifts to Approaching End of Life
Virtual Program
This month, Matilda talks with Dr. Virginia Chang, an end-of-life doula and author of the new book “Preparing For End of Life For Dummies.” Matilda and Virginia will talk about generational differences in attitudes toward end of life and death, such as those featured in the popular movie The Farewell, and many other aspects which can impact the end-of-life experience.
Virginia came to death work after the three traumatic deaths of her loved ones, which she describes being “hopeless” and “powerless” to effect positive change for them. Her approach to end of life is to empower others in their process. She has a thriving practice in NYC, working with those at end of life and their families/caregivers to create a meaningful, positive, and affirming experience.
In addition to her private practice and volunteer work with VNS Health, she trains other doulas through the University of Vermont’s End of Life Doula Professional Certificate program and writes extensively on death, dying, and the work of end-of-life doulas.
A Q&A follows the program. Free (suggested donation $10).
MAY
Saturday, May 9, 3 p.m.
“Where Shadows Linger:” An Afternoon Ghost Tour
On this afternoon tour, we’ll explore some of the spookiest true tales of ghostly sightings at the Merchant’s House, as well as highlights from our ongoing research into strange and supernatural occurrences at the house. We’ll also test out some newly-built handheld paranormal sensors, and discover why The New York Times calls us “Manhattan’s Most Haunted House.”
60 minutes, strictly limited capacity. Reservations strongly recommended. $20, $10 MHM Members and children ages 8-12. (Children under 8 are not permitted.)
Saturday, May 16, 11 a.m.
House Tour – Exploring a 19th Century Home: Interior Design at the Merchant’s House
Have you ever wanted to know how successful New Yorkers decorated their homes in the mid-19th century? Curious what furniture was in vogue? Window coverings? What floor coverings were used in various rooms? Wonder where and how they purchased their furnishings?
Join expert interior designer and MHM docent extraordinaire Dennis McAvena for an in-depth and behind-the-scenes exploration of the elegant interiors of Merchant’s House. We’ll step back in time as we discuss the specifics and challenges (lighting!) of 19th century interior design, as well as how form follows function, exploring how rooms like the grand double parlor played a role in social entertaining.
This 90-minute tour takes place outside general museum hours, ensuring an exclusive experience for guests. $30; MHM Members $15.
Saturday, May 16, 1:30 p.m.
Walking Tour: The Tredwells’ World of 19th Century Noho
With the 1825 opening of the Erie Canal, the city’s economy boomed and wealthy merchant families escaped the increasing noise, congestion, and commercialization of the seaport area to move “uptown,” to what is now modern day NoHo, then an exclusive residential enclave. Join us as we explore the Tredwells’ elite neighborhood and discover what life was like for the wealthy merchant class in the mid-19th century. $20, FREE for Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Walking tours are 90 minutes and meet next door to the Merchant’s House in Manuel Plaza.
Thursday, May 21, 6 p.m.
Death Matters: Hindu Traditions around Dying, Death, and Grief
Virtual Program
In this month’s “Death Matters” program, Matilda welcomes Bindu Lanka, Chaplain at Children’s Health Services, Plano, TX. They will discuss Hindu traditions around death, dying, and grief, recognizing geographical differences and exploring the experience of the diaspora here in the U.S. and how they bring the traditions to this country. This conversation will include a discussion of the concept of karma, so often misinterpreted, as well as reincarnation.
Bindu Lanka is a compassionate professional with a dual background in spiritual care and human resources. In addition to her work as chaplain, she is certified by the Government of India as a Yoga Wellness Instructor and is also a certified Datta Kriya Yoga teacher, integrating mind-body practices with spiritual growth. A fun fact about Bindu is that she is a three-time Guinness World Record holder, as one of the participants in the largest simultaneous text recital, the longest chanting marathon, and as a musician in the largest Carnatic band.
A Q&A follows the program. Free ($10 suggested donation).
JUNE
Saturday, June 6, 1:30 p.m.
Walking Tour: The Tredwells’ World of 19th Century Noho
With the 1825 opening of the Erie Canal, the city’s economy boomed and wealthy merchant families escaped the increasing noise, congestion, and commercialization of the seaport area to move “uptown,” to what is now modern day NoHo, then an exclusive residential enclave. Join us as we explore the Tredwells’ elite neighborhood and discover what life was like for the wealthy merchant class in the mid-19th century. $20, FREE for Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Walking tours are 90 minutes and meet next door to the Merchant’s House in Manuel Plaza.
Saturday, June 13, 3 p.m.
Guided House Tour: Healthcare in Tredwell Times
Curious about healthcare in the 19th century and the illnesses that affected New Yorkers during that era? On this afternoon tour, we’ll explore the diseases and treatments common in 19th century New York. Drawing from firsthand accounts and historical sources, we’ll learn about major outbreaks of cholera, diphtheria, typhoid fever, and the recorded causes of death within the Tredwell family, along with the types of medical care they might have received. This tour will also highlight how the Civil War spurred significant medical advancements and changed the way physicians and nurses were trained.
60-75 minutes. $20, MHM Members $10.
Sunday, June 14, 3 p.m.
“Where Shadows Linger:” An Afternoon Ghost Tour
On this afternoon tour, we’ll explore some of the spookiest true tales of ghostly sightings at the Merchant’s House, as well as highlights from our ongoing research into strange and supernatural occurrences at the house. We’ll also test out some newly-built handheld paranormal sensors, and discover why The New York Times calls us “Manhattan’s Most Haunted House.”
60 minutes, strictly limited capacity. Reservations strongly recommended. $20, $10 MHM Members and children ages 8-12. (Children under 8 are not permitted.)
Thursdays in June and July, 5 to 8 p.m.
Summer Evenings in the Garden
Join us for an informal evening to celebrate summer with light refreshments in the garden.
Garden admission is free, enter via Manuel Plaza. No reservations.
Live music and guided house tours on select evenings at 6 p.m.
Reservations recommended for house tours: $20, MHM Members free.
Thursday, June 4, 6 p.m. – Guided House Tour
Thursday, June 11, 6 p.m. – Guided House Tour
Thursday, June 18, 6 p.m. – Live Music with Jazz Flutist Cheryl Pyle – Free, no reservations.
Thursday, June 25 – No Summer Evenings Event, but join us for Whitman in Love!
5 Performances Only! June 24 to June 28
Whitman in Love
Presented by Summoners Ensemble Theatre in Association with the Merchant’s House Museum
American journalist, essayist, and pioneering LGBTQ poet Walt Whitman took nightly refuge at Pfaff’s beer cellar just blocks from the Merchant’s House on Broadway at Bleecker Street, a bohemian gathering place where he found community, inspiration, and the human intimacy that shaped his work.
This Pride Month, for five performances only in the Museum’s lush 19th century rear garden, audiences will encounter the deeply personal love poetry of Whitman in an intimate theatrical setting that brings them face-to-face with one of the most powerful and revealing strands of his work.
Light refreshments will be served. $65.
JULY
Saturday, July 11, 1:30 p.m.
Walking Tour: The Tredwells’ World of 19th Century Noho
With the 1825 opening of the Erie Canal, the city’s economy boomed and wealthy merchant families escaped the increasing noise, congestion, and commercialization of the seaport area to move “uptown,” to what is now modern day NoHo, then an exclusive residential enclave. Join us as we explore the Tredwells’ elite neighborhood and discover what life was like for the wealthy merchant class in the mid-19th century. $20, FREE for Members. Reservations strongly recommended.
Walking tours are 90 minutes and meet next door to the Merchant’s House in Manuel Plaza.
Friday, July 17, 3 p.m.
Guided House Tour: Healthcare in Tredwell Times
Curious about healthcare in the 19th century and the illnesses that affected New Yorkers during that era? On this afternoon tour, we’ll explore the diseases and treatments common in 19th century New York. Drawing from firsthand accounts and historical sources, we’ll learn about major outbreaks of cholera, diphtheria, typhoid fever, and the recorded causes of death within the Tredwell family, along with the types of medical care they might have received. This tour will also highlight how the Civil War spurred significant medical advancements and changed the way physicians and nurses were trained.
60-75 minutes. $20, MHM Members $10.
Saturday, July 18, 11 a.m.
Guided House Tour – Exploring a 19th Century Home: Interior Design at the Merchant’s House
Have you ever wanted to know how successful New Yorkers decorated their homes in the mid-19th century? Curious what furniture was in vogue? Window coverings? What floor coverings were used in various rooms? Wonder where and how they purchased their furnishings?
Join expert interior designer and MHM docent extraordinaire Dennis McAvena for an in-depth and behind-the-scenes exploration of the elegant interiors of Merchant’s House. We’ll step back in time as we discuss the specifics and challenges (lighting!) of 19th century interior design, as well as how form follows function, exploring how rooms like the grand double parlor played a role in social entertaining.
This 90-minute tour takes place outside general museum hours, ensuring an exclusive experience for guests. $30; MHM Members $15.
Sunday, July 26, 3 p.m.
“Where Shadows Linger:” An Afternoon Ghost Tour
On this afternoon tour, we’ll explore some of the spookiest true tales of ghostly sightings at the Merchant’s House, as well as highlights from our ongoing research into strange and supernatural occurrences at the house. We’ll also test out some newly-built handheld paranormal sensors, and discover why The New York Times calls us “Manhattan’s Most Haunted House.”
60 minutes, strictly limited capacity. Reservations strongly recommended. $20, $10 MHM Members and children ages 8-12. (Children under 8 are not permitted.)
Summer Evenings in the Garden
Join us for an informal evening to celebrate summer with light refreshments in the garden.
Garden admission is free, enter via Manuel Plaza. No reservations.
Live music, informal talks, and guided house tours on select evenings at 6 p.m.
Reservations recommended for house tours: $20, MHM Members free.
Thursday, July 2, 6 p.m. – Guided House Tour –
Thursday, July 9, 6 p.m. – Book Talk with Maureen McElheron, author of Miss Gitty 1860: Romance & Adventure in Old New York – Free, no reservations.
Thursday, July 16, Rescheduled for July 23, 6 p.m. – Nerdy Thursdays with Black Gotham Experience – Free; more information at BlackGotham.com.
Thursday, July 23, 6 p.m. – Guided House Tour –
Thursday, July 30, 6 p.m. – Guided House Tour
AUGUST
Thursday August 13, 5 to 8 p.m.
Bonus Summer Evening in the Garden
Join us for an informal evening to celebrate summer with light refreshments in the garden.
Garden admission is free, enter via Manuel Plaza. No reservations.
Bonus Date! Thursday, August 13, 6 p.m. – Live Music with Jazz Flutist Cheryl Pyle – Free, no reservations.
