Exhibition: We Who Are Weary

The Age of Sail spanned centuries, with countless sailors opening up global trade and an exchange of culture.  Life at sea was harsh, with boys potentially leaving home as early as seven, often losing family ties, and facing the risk of poverty in old age due to lack of pensions or healthcare.

Robert Richard Randall (d. 1801) sought to address this in his will by creating Sailors' Snug Harbor, a retirement home for "aged, decrepit, and worn out seamen." By 1831, the trustees established by the will had hired the young architect Minard Lafever (1798-1854) to design the first building. The cornerstone was laid in November 1831, and by June 1833, advertisements were placed in local papers seeking applicants.

Randall's will left eligibility open, and the trustees, whose values and attitudes would shape the Harbor in its early days, set the criteria: American sailors needed five years of service on US vessels, foreign-born sailors ten years, along with letters of recommendation and proof of no family support.  Accepted sailors were medically examined and, regardless of rank, were called "Captain."

Over 10,000 men were cared for at Sailors' Snug Harbor throughout its 143-year history on Staten Island.  Admitted sailors received complimentary room and board, medical care, and the companionship of their fellow seafarers as they lived out their retirements.