May 25, 2012
Also Visit NY State Arts
Garibaldi-Meucci Museum
Free for Children under 10 and Senior caretakers
During the 1850s two remarkable Italians, Giuseppe Garibaldi and Antonio Meucci, shared this humble white clapboard farmhouse. The building now serves as a museum commemorating their lives and achievements.
The much-celebrated Garibaldi was an exile in America; he lived in the house with Meucci for about four years before returning to Italy to lead his volunteer legions to victories that established the modern Italian state. Meucci is not as well known, but his work was even more far-reaching than his compatriot's. Meucci invented a prototype of the telephone when Alexander Graham Bell was two years old. (Bell patented it.) The museum houses a schematic of Meucci's teletrofono, as well as photographs, letters, memorabilia relating to both men and some of Garibaldi's medals. There's an extensive collection of military artifacts as well, including period rifles and uniforms and a giant cauldron used for melting wax, the trade that sustained the two men through their years of poverty in America.
Programs for Seniors
Speakers available for senior center programs, upon request.
Seniors (62 and older) receive $15 off individual membership.
- Disability Access: Wheelchair accessible
- Gift Shops
- On-Site Parking: Parking is limited in this residential neighborhood; carpool if possible
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Garibaldi-Meucci Museum Listings
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Ongoing Students learn what life might have been like 2,000 years ago in Italy as they perform skits pertaining to Roman life and create their own mosaic artwork.
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Ongoing Separate rooms in the museum examine the lives of the two Italian men who shared this home for four years: general Giuseppe Garibaldi and scientist Antonio Meucci.
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Ongoing By donning costumes and making their own masks, students get a taste of Venice's renowned Carnevale celebration. They also learn about Commedia dell' Arte characters, which are based on regional stereotyes, and engage in discussions about prejudice.