Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Press Release

July 10, 2025

Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site Introduces New Accessibility Features, Historically Accurate Upgrades

Photos from the event can be found here

ALBANY, NY – Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site unveiled historically-accurate upgrades and new accessibility features, transporting visitors to the 18th century. The series of improvements to the site's interior were introduced at a ribbon cutting event on July 10.

In 2023, the Friends of Schuyler Mansion received $33,264 through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program–administered by Parks & Trails New York and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation–for a series of site improvement projects.

The grant funded a protective floorcloth for the heavily trafficked bare first floor of the historic site in Albany and the installation of drapes and accessories in the parlor just off the main entrance intended to closely resemble the original look and feel of the room. These historically accurate additions help to illustrate the 18th century antiquities that once existed in the space. The project also included the creation of a historic fabric catalogue and tactile reproductions of drawings found in the upstairs of the Mansion.

The Friends of Schuyler Mansion partnered with the Center for Independence to develop hands-on elements for visitors to make the experience more inclusive to those who are visually impaired and to enhance the experience for those who learn differently.

Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White said, "Schuyler Mansion has welcomed thousands of visitors over the past 260 years. These improvements will help preserve the rich history of Schuyler Mansion and create more opportunities for accessible education. We applaud the Friends of Schuyler Mansion in their effort to welcome a growing number of visitors, while protecting the integrity of this historic site."

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, "The enhancements at Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site reflect our ongoing commitment to preserving New York's rich, whole history while improving the visitor experience and accessibility so everyone can better understand the lives and legacies that shaped this important site. A special thank you to the Friends of Schuyler Mansion for their dedication and partnership in spearheading this project."

President of Friends of Schuyler Mansion Janine Moon said, "Parks & Trails New York Grants are a valuable asset for the Friends of Schuyler Mansion to help with the immediate needs and long term needs for both the staff and the community. Immediately, we were able to make portions of the mansion more accessible with the creation of the tactile engraving and the cloth sample books. At the core of the mission of the Friends, is the conservation of the mansion. The addition of the floor cloth and drapes have enabled us to protect the structure and collections of the mansion for decades so the stories within our walls can be shared and explored for generations to come."

Executive Director of Schuyler Mansion Heidi Hill said, "This PTNY project is a shining example of the visitor amenities the site can provide through a strong partnership between Friends of Schuyler Mansion and Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site! Together, we worked on a vision and grant narrative for Parks and Trails New York that resulted in transformative improvements for our visitors."

The Park and Trail Partnership Grant program supports group efforts to raise private funds for capital projects, engage in maintenance and beautification projects, build capacity within the eligible non-profit organizations, create needed permanent staff positions, and provide educational programming and special events that promote public use of the parks. Since 2015, this competitive grant program has funded 245 projects totaling $9.9 million in awards and leveraging over $3 million in private funding across 10 rounds.

About Parks & Trails New York
Parks & Trails New York is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health, economy, and quality of life of all New Yorkers through the use and enjoyment of green space. Since 1985, PTNY has been a powerful advocate for the protection and enhancement of New York's parks and trails for all to enjoy. For more information, visit www.ptny.org.

About New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on FacebookInstagramXLinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.