Built in 1930-32, York Hall is majestically situated in the center of Nissequogue River State Park and was once part of the former Kings Park State Hospital campus. The building has been identified as a significant historic and cultural resource eligible for listing on the State and National Register of Historic Places as part of the Kings Park State Hospital Historic District.
Constructed at a time when over 90% of the Kings Park community lived or worked at the state hospital, York Hall represents the deep connections between the former facility and its surrounding community. While patients used York Hall for recreational activities, performances, and plays (theater and drama were viewed as both therapeutic and a means by which to keep patients active and socially engaged), town residents used the building for community meetings, holiday celebrations, dances, receptions, and other social activities.
Vacant and largely abandoned since 1996 when the hospital closed, the condition of York Hall has deteriorated due to deferred maintenance. However, the Nissequogue River State Park Foundation and State Parks are collaborating to restore the building to its former glory. We recently teamed up with philanthropist Charlie Reichert to replace the building’s roof and dormers, preventing additional damage to its interior. We are now currently working with experts to refurbish the entire structure for use as a state of the art performing arts center.
Help us bring this project to fruition by donating today.
Thank you,
NRSP Foundation