The Ghost Town of Staten Island

The Staten Island Farm Colony is a New York City landmark that was neglected by the city for 40 years and was left to the mercy of vandals, squatters and the elements.

It was created as a poor farm, where indigent people could live in exchange for designated work roles. Eventually the work requirement was lifted, and mostly elderly people lived at the colony until it was closed in 1975.

In 2016, the 45 acres were purchased for $1 by Staten Island developer Raymond Masucci. His $91 million project, the Landmark Colony, will provide 55-and-older housing and integrates the preserved landmark buildings into the design plan. It is expected to be finished in 2020.