The Tottenville Historical Society, in partnership with the Preservation League of Staten Island, has completed an architectural survey of more than 275 homes and buildings in a designated area of the Tottenville community. The purpose of the survey was to identify and document the community's historic resources. The buildings were chosen because of their age, architectural quality, state of preservation, and/or known history of ownership.

Under the direction of Barnett Shepherd, former executive director of Historic Richmond Town and the principal investigator of the survey project, the project was completed in phases as follows:

Phase I - Survey:

A. Property deed research - historic map review - census data research

B. Findings report

C. 1940 Tax Photograph and Current Image

Based on deed research, a review of historic maps and photographs, along with census data, we have been able to determine the approximate date of construction, the original owner's name and their vocation in most cases.

Phase II - Book:

D. Tottenville:  The Town the Oyster Built. A Staten Island Community, Its People, Industry and Architecture

In 2009, the first comprehensive book on the history of Tottenville, based on the survey findings, was published.  In 2010, with over 1,000 copies sold, the book was reprinted in paperback and became available through bookstore and online retail distribution.

Phase III - State and National Register Nominations:

E. In 2007, the New York State Historic Preservation Office, which "helps communities identify, evaluate, preserve and revitalize their historic, archaeological and cultural resources," took a walking tour of Tottenville, and subsequently awarded the Tottenville Historical Society a $5,100 grant to complete multiple building nominations for placement on the National Register of Historic Places.