Friends of Alice Austen House Board Campaign supporting Friends of Alice Austen House
Friends of Alice Austen House

About the Cause

The mission of the Alice Austen House (AAH) is to foster creative expression, explore personal identity, educate and inspire the public through the interpretation of the photographs, life, and historic home of pioneering American photographer, Alice Austen (1866-1952).
An early adopter of the technology, Austen’s prolific, groundbreaking photographs offer a unique view into Victorian life while also connecting to contemporary social issues, including immigration, feminism, LGBTQ+ interests, and urban development. She spent over fifty years with her life partner, Gertrude Tate, and lost her family wealth in the 1929 market crash and eventually her beloved family home. 
Situated on a four-acre public park overlooking the Narrows in Staten Island, the Friends of Alice Austen House saved Austen's home from the wrecking ball and opened the historic house museum in 1986.

How Your Support Makes a Difference

AAH is the only museum in America dedicated to representing the work of one female photographer. 
Your donation assists the museum as it executes its mission and honors Austen's legacy by:
1. offering changing exhibitions of Austen’s work and of contemporary photography
2. delivering educational programs for New York City schoolchildren
3. hosting a full calendar of dynamic cultural public programs, including photography workshops and festivals, concerts and performances, and artist talks


The Friends of Alice Austen House are looking to raise $15,000 through the New Friends of Alice board campaign. Covid-19 has interrupted all aspects of life, including our ability to gather together for an annual gala. Despite the pandemic, Alice Austen House has continued to execute its mission and provide programs for all.

Your support contributes to AAH's ability to:

  • Host outdoor public programs at Alice Austen Park 
  • Teach K-12 educational programs in Staten Island
  • Offer free virtual artist talks and tours
  • Guide in-person historical tours
  • Present contemporary photography exhibitions