opportunity to improve their lives
either by preparing them for better job or improving
their leisure time. The institute housed the Justice
of the Peace, the first home of the College Point
Savings Bank, German Singing Societies, the first
library in the area, a court room, the Sheriff's
Office (2 jail cells remain today), as well as the
first free kindergarten in the United States which
began here on July 1st,1870.
Over the years many adult education programs were held. Many of those who attended are now successful business owners in the area. Due to its history and impressive architecture, the Institute was designated a N.Y.C. Landmark in 1970, and was subsequently listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
Despite these designations, in 1980 the Institute was threatened with sale and demolition, but due to the efforts of a community group and a Supreme court case, this action was fortunately prevented.Today, the Institute serves College Point as a community cultural center housing the following programs:
- Karate for Children
& Adults
- Group Piano Lessons
- Theater: E. Phoenix Idealis Players
- Lectures & Slide Presentations
- Summer Concerts in MacNeil Park
- Children's Performances & Workshops
- Historic Exhibits
- School and Public Tours
- Walking and bus tours
- Historic slide presentations
- Rental space available