SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS
We offer two different field trip experiences:
VAN CORTLANDT HOUSE: A JOURNEY TO COLONIAL NEW YORK
and
AT THE CROSSROADS: THE REVOLUTION IN THE BRONX​
VAN CORTLANDT HOUSE:
​A JOURNEY TO COLONIAL NEW YORK 
     Prepare for a hands-on adventure to New York City's past as your class explores the hidden secrets of Van Cortlandt House Museum and Van Cortlandt Park.
     In this highly interactive field trip, you students will learn about New York's Indigenous inhabitants and its Dutch heritage. They will witness the lasting contributions of enslaved Africans in the development of New York and see their legacy in today's Van Cortlandt Park.
     The trip highlights the economy of colonial New York and its connection to the Caribbean.
     This program was designed to address key concepts from the NYC Dept. of Education Social Studies Scope and Sequence for grade 4 but can be adapted and broadened for older students.  The trip is recommended for any class that is currently studying the history of New York.
AT THE CROSSROADS:
THE REVOLUTION IN THE BRONX​
     Embark on a journey to Revolutionary New York in a historic house that witnessed the action. Students will learn about the importance of The Bronx and New York City in the Revolution and how European colonists, free and enslaved Africans, and Indigenous people all played a role in the story of the founding of the United States.
     As the students explore the historic home of the Van Cortlandts, they will work to solve a mystery: Were the Van Cortlandts Patriots, Loyalists, or neither. At the same time, the class will be challenged to consider how the enslaved people capitalized on the historical moment to secure their freedom. The trip highlights New York's geography and the importance of the Caribbean in the struggle for independence.
     This program was designed to address key concepts from the NYC Dept. of Education Social Studies Scope and Sequence for Grade 4.  It is perfect for a class that is studying the Revolution or just completed a unit of study on the Revolution.

LESSON PLANS

The Enslaved People Project is a joint effort of the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance, Van Cortlandt House Museum operated by The National Society of Colonial Dames in the State of New York, and the Kingsbridge Historical Society.

​The Enslaved People Project Curriculum was funded by Bronx Community Board 8 and the New York City Council.  The Enslaved People Project created two curricula to be used by teachers:

4th Grade Curriculum

6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Curriculum