2013 Exhibitions and Events
OCTOBER 25, 2013 - JANUARY 19, 2014
Foure Pounds Sterling
First Purchase and Other Rare Documents
from the Oyster Bay Historical Society and Town Clerk's Office
On display will be documents, letters, maps, and manuscripts, beginning with the 1653 First Purchase agreement with the Matinecocks. Representative selections of materials from the 17th through the 20th centuries, some of which have never been previously exhibited, will be on view.
Through January 19, 2014
Foure Pounds Sterling
First Purchase and Other Rare Documents
from the Oyster Bay Historical Society and Town Clerk's Office
On display will be documents, letters, maps, and manuscripts, beginning with the 1653 First Purchase agreement with the Matinecocks. Representative selections of materials from the 17th through the 20th centuries, some of which have never been previously exhibited, will be on view.
Through January 19, 2014
From the Exhibition
Assignment of Commonage Rights 1663 Manuscript on paper 12 x 8 inches — Town Clerk’s Office This document represents Oyster Bay’s earliest surviving policy regarding the distribution of the settlement’s common lands. Nicholas Wright, Francis Weeks, and Henry Townsend accepted the responsibility of delineating and assigning 20-acre lots to each inhabitant, provided that the land lay beyond a mile of the hamlet. Although a simple policy on its face, the division of land may have proved difficult to control. By the early 1670s, the Town prohibited the granting of any more house lots and commonage without the express approval of every freeman. 
Stedman Building Directory
53 x 30 inches — Oyster Bay Historical Society Collections The Nassau County Police unit assigned to Oyster Bay established its first headquarters in the Moore Building, owned at the time by William Stedman. As John Hammond relates in Oyster Bay Remembered, Captain Frank McCahill supervised a police force of six full-time officers. 
Richard Vogel ca. 1940 — Oyster Bay Historical Society Archives Richard Vogel of Hicksville served as a lifeguard at Tobay during the summers of 1939 and 1940. According to the Central Island News of 22 August 1940, Vogel and three other guards received a resolution of commendation from the Town Board for their part in the rescue of three distressed swimmers. |
 Detail from the map of Henry Fleet's farm in Oyster Bay Cove
A map of the late Henry Fleet's farm of Oysterbay Cove surveyed for the commissioners and divided as they directed, by Newberry Sprague, Surveyor.
March 16th, 1864. Inscribed by Commissioners McCoun, Jones, and Youngs: "Approved by us as Commissioners in making the partition." 32.5 x 23 in. 1 in. = 6 rods. Pen & ink and watercolor on paper. — Oyster Bay Historical Society Archives The Fleet family, prominent in Oyster Bay, has connections to other subjects in this exhibition. The Fleets were both partners with and customers of Captain Daniel Underhill. Their children attended Rev. Marmaduke Earle’s Oyster Bay Academy. And in 1868 Arnold Fleet brought back the body of Captain Underhill’s son from Manhattan for burial in Youngs Memorial Cemetery. This very fine example of a mid-nineteenth century manuscript map came to the Society Archives as a generous 2008 gift funded by a Gerry Fund grant for purchase by the Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities. 
Daniel Lewis Downing 1862 Ambrotype — Oyster Bay Historical Society Archives Daniel Lewis Downing enlisted in August 1862 and served in the Harris Light Cavalry during the Civil War. The son of Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor George S. Downing, he fell at the battle of Aldie, Virginia in June 1863 His friend Daniel Isaac Underhill wrote home: I saw D L Downing fall from his horse dead in a short time after I got a ballet bullet in my arm and then I road off the field as quick as I could that was the last I saw of my comrades 
Turf and Twig Presentation
Mill Pond 4 June 1941 — Town Clerk’s Office In a ceremony 280 years after Henry Townsend was first granted the right to build a mill at Oyster Bay, the Mill Pond property was returned to the Town of Oyster Bay. The day's program began at Town Hall and ended at the pond’s northwest corner. The Beekman Family Association handed ownership of the pond to Town Supervisor Harry Tappen, who accepted a piece of the property’s turf and bits of willow twigs as symbols of the transfer. The turf and twig ceremony, or livery of seisin, has its roots in feudal England but remained in relatively common practice in colonial America. 
Transcriptions of Manuscripts in the Exhibition
The Oyster Bay Historical Society acknowledges
Town of Oyster Bay John Venditto, Supervisor
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The Annual Holiday Open House
Oyster Bay
Historical Society's Open House
Koenig Center Exhibition Gallery
5:00 to 7:00 pm. on Saturday December 14
Featuring food, drink, and holiday cheer, prepared and served by the Historical Society's hardworking staff
Deviled Eggs
Fresh Vegetable Crudités
Spiral Hams
Corn Pudding
Homestyle Mac & Cheese
Tossed Salad
Pumpkin Roulade Santa's Spritzers
and introducing Milicent's Eggnog served in the Wightman House
Koenig Center Exhibition Gallery
5:00 to 7:00 pm. on Saturday December 14
Featuring food, drink, and holiday cheer, prepared and served by the Historical Society's hardworking staff
Deviled Eggs
Fresh Vegetable Crudités
Spiral Hams
Corn Pudding
Homestyle Mac & Cheese
Tossed Salad
Pumpkin Roulade Santa's Spritzers
and introducing Milicent's Eggnog served in the Wightman House
Daughters of the British Empire
Presented by Victoria Crosby
Saturday, November 23, 2:00 p.m.
At the Koenig Center
A lecture and slide presentation on the history of the Daughters of the British Empire, with select readings from Ms. Crosby's poetry collection BritCentric
Victoria Crosby presides as New York State President of the Daughters of the British Empire, while serving as Regent of the Westminster Abbey Chapter, Long Island's only DBE chapter. She is also Poet Laureate of both the DBE and the City of Glen Cove.
Light refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public. Donations to the Oyster Bay Historical Society's Beverly Mohlenhoff Fund, in support of the Koenig Center, are welcome.
Presented by Victoria Crosby
Saturday, November 23, 2:00 p.m.
At the Koenig Center
A lecture and slide presentation on the history of the Daughters of the British Empire, with select readings from Ms. Crosby's poetry collection BritCentric
Victoria Crosby presides as New York State President of the Daughters of the British Empire, while serving as Regent of the Westminster Abbey Chapter, Long Island's only DBE chapter. She is also Poet Laureate of both the DBE and the City of Glen Cove.
Light refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public. Donations to the Oyster Bay Historical Society's Beverly Mohlenhoff Fund, in support of the Koenig Center, are welcome.
Footsteps of Soldiers
Thursday, November 7
2:00 p.m. at Pine Hollow Cemetery
3:30 p.m. at the Koenig Center
On Thursday, November 7, beginning at 2:00 pm, the color guard of the New York 26th Regiment United States Colored Troops Re-enactors will lay a wreath at Pine Hollow Cemetery in Oyster Bay, in honor of the Civil War veterans of three New York regiments buried on the grounds. The ceremony includes the presentation of plaques to Butch Garrison, for his work in restoring the cemetery, and to Peggy Carl, granddaughter of David Carll, who lies buried at Pine Hollow.
At 3:30, following the ceremonies, the Oyster Bay Historical Society will host a panel discussion on the lives that Pine Hollow veterans led before, during, and after the war. Panel members include Ludger Ballon, Dr. Judith Burgess, Frank Carl, Denice Evans-Sheppard, Brian Rapalyea, and Elizabeth Roosevelt. The program will close with the screening of a film featuring the 20th, 26th, and 31st New York regiments.
Later that evening, beginning at 8:00 pm, the African American Museum in Hempstead will be hosting a reception to mark the opening of a month-long exhibition of images and other materials from the personal collections of panelist Denice Evans-Sheppard.
All events are free and open to the public.
* Enter Pine Hollow Cemetery from Pine Hollow Road (Route 106) opposite the Pine Hollow Shopping Center in Oyster Bay.
Thursday, November 7
2:00 p.m. at Pine Hollow Cemetery
3:30 p.m. at the Koenig Center
On Thursday, November 7, beginning at 2:00 pm, the color guard of the New York 26th Regiment United States Colored Troops Re-enactors will lay a wreath at Pine Hollow Cemetery in Oyster Bay, in honor of the Civil War veterans of three New York regiments buried on the grounds. The ceremony includes the presentation of plaques to Butch Garrison, for his work in restoring the cemetery, and to Peggy Carl, granddaughter of David Carll, who lies buried at Pine Hollow.
At 3:30, following the ceremonies, the Oyster Bay Historical Society will host a panel discussion on the lives that Pine Hollow veterans led before, during, and after the war. Panel members include Ludger Ballon, Dr. Judith Burgess, Frank Carl, Denice Evans-Sheppard, Brian Rapalyea, and Elizabeth Roosevelt. The program will close with the screening of a film featuring the 20th, 26th, and 31st New York regiments.
Later that evening, beginning at 8:00 pm, the African American Museum in Hempstead will be hosting a reception to mark the opening of a month-long exhibition of images and other materials from the personal collections of panelist Denice Evans-Sheppard.
All events are free and open to the public.
* Enter Pine Hollow Cemetery from Pine Hollow Road (Route 106) opposite the Pine Hollow Shopping Center in Oyster Bay.
Ghastly Grounds
Halloween at the Earle-Wightman House
Sunday, October 27, 1-4 pm
All little vampires, witches, ghosts and zombies are invited to drop by the Earle Wightman House for face painting, a skeleton scavenger hunt and wild pumpkin toss! Creep, float, or crawl over for some Halloween excitement with refreshments served!
20 Summit Street, Oyster Bay
For details contact Nicole Menchise or Philip Blocklyn at 516-922-5032 or obhslibrary@optonline.net.
Sunday, October 27, 1-4 pm
All little vampires, witches, ghosts and zombies are invited to drop by the Earle Wightman House for face painting, a skeleton scavenger hunt and wild pumpkin toss! Creep, float, or crawl over for some Halloween excitement with refreshments served!
20 Summit Street, Oyster Bay
For details contact Nicole Menchise or Philip Blocklyn at 516-922-5032 or obhslibrary@optonline.net.
Halloween Card Making at the Historical Society
Saturday, October 26, 12:30 - 3:30 in the Koenig Center
Boo again!
Make a date for the Halloween Treat Cards in Oyster Bay. Join us for some scary fun. We'll be making five different spooky treat holders for all of your favorite ghouls. A mummy, witch's hat, tombstone, and more await you, all filled with candy surprises. If you'd like to join us, call the Society and let us know you'd like to reserve a spot. The class is $30, including all supplies.
Saturday, October 26, 12:30 - 3:30 in the Koenig Center
Boo again!
Make a date for the Halloween Treat Cards in Oyster Bay. Join us for some scary fun. We'll be making five different spooky treat holders for all of your favorite ghouls. A mummy, witch's hat, tombstone, and more await you, all filled with candy surprises. If you'd like to join us, call the Society and let us know you'd like to reserve a spot. The class is $30, including all supplies.
OPENING RECEPTION
OCTOBER 25, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Foure Pounds Sterling
First Purchase and Other Rare Documents
from the Oyster Bay Historical Society and Town Clerk's Office
On display will be documents, letters, maps, and manuscripts, beginning with the 1653 First Purchase agreement with the Matinecocks. Representative selections of materials from the 17th through the 20th centuries, some of which have never been previously exhibited, will be on view.
Through January 19, 2014
OCTOBER 25, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Foure Pounds Sterling
First Purchase and Other Rare Documents
from the Oyster Bay Historical Society and Town Clerk's Office
On display will be documents, letters, maps, and manuscripts, beginning with the 1653 First Purchase agreement with the Matinecocks. Representative selections of materials from the 17th through the 20th centuries, some of which have never been previously exhibited, will be on view.
Through January 19, 2014
Thirtieth Annual Oyster Festival
October 19 and 20
Visit the Oyster Bay Historical Society at Tent #21
in the Food Court for Tasty Wraps from Messina Market
October 19 and 20
Visit the Oyster Bay Historical Society at Tent #21
in the Food Court for Tasty Wraps from Messina Market
Archives Week Workshop
OYSTER BAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY PRESERVATION WORKSHOP
Preserving Your Family Scrapbooks
NOTE CHANGE OF DATE!
Tuesday October 15, 6:00 to 7:30 pm
The Koenig Center
Scrapbooking is the art of decorating pages with mementos and written materials from the events that have touched our lives. Unfortunately, your inherited family scrapbooks might be fragile due to the types of materials used or from improper storage.
On Tuesday, October 8th, 2013 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., Nicole Menchise, Archivist for the Oyster Bay Historical Society, will hold an informal seminar to discuss common materials and their aging processes and options for long term preservation.
Free to members of the Oyster Bay Historical Society (with special membership opportunities to those living in the 11771 zip code), $15 for non-members. The seminar will take place at the Koenig Research Center (behind the Earle-Wightman House), 20 Summit Street, Oyster Bay, NY. Attendees are encouraged to bring a scrapbook with them to discuss their individual challenges. Light refreshments will be served.
Contact the Society at 516-922-5032 or email obhslibrary@optonline.net for details or to make a reservation.
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
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Third Annual Plein Air Exhibition
August 11 through October 6 at the Koenig Center The work of thirty artists taking part in the Teaching Studios of Art Plein Air Competition at Planting Fields is now on view at the Koenig Center. The exhibition continues through October 6 during the Society's regular public hours. Admittance is free and open to the public. The sale of exhibited artwork supports the mission of the Oyster Bay Historical Society's Angela Koenig Center.
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Artists
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Alexander Adell
Charles Basman Vera Belyavskaya Sheila Breck Esther Marie Chagaris Lawrence Chrapliwy Michael Conlon Noel Darvie Sebastian Deregibus Steve Dolan |
Aleta Heisig
James Jahrsdoerfer Theresa Kasun Maura Kelley Christine Verga Maday Linda Davison Mathues Christine McBryan Madeline Meryash Water Mosley David A. Paulsen |
Carol Petretti
Virginia Pierrepont Richard Piloco Eleanor Roe Marc Salmin Joan Sicignano Boris Tyomkin Jessica Vandenburg Erigels Vogli Larry Wechsler |
Saturday, September 28
Card Making Extravaganza with Diana Kovacs
Saturday, September 28, 2013
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm at the Koenig Center
Make six different cards in this 3-hour class. Using paper, ribbons, button fibers, and all sorts of collage materials, we'll explore different layouts for a multitude of possibilities. Make cards for birthdays, thank-yous, weddings, baby announcements, and more. No class is ever the same. Images show here are representative of cards we've made. The ones in your class will be different.
The cost of the class is $30, which includes all supplies.
Advanced registration is required, so please contact the Society at 516-922-5032 or obhsdirector@optonline.net
Saturday, September 28, 2013
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm at the Koenig Center
Make six different cards in this 3-hour class. Using paper, ribbons, button fibers, and all sorts of collage materials, we'll explore different layouts for a multitude of possibilities. Make cards for birthdays, thank-yous, weddings, baby announcements, and more. No class is ever the same. Images show here are representative of cards we've made. The ones in your class will be different.
The cost of the class is $30, which includes all supplies.
Advanced registration is required, so please contact the Society at 516-922-5032 or obhsdirector@optonline.net
Book signing and reception with author Deborah Smith
Friday, September 27, 2013
4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
The Koenig Center
Deborah Smith began A Centre Island Botanica in 1981 after returning to her childhood haunts on Centre Island. She started to re-explore the woods and beaches, becoming intrigued with the wild herbs and flowers she found growing there. The result is a compendium of Centre Island plant lore and legend, from Asiatic Day Flower to Yarrow, including recipes, notes, and a full bibliography. In all, over ninety wild flowers are featured in the Botanica for the enjoyment of plant lovers and all like-minded souls.
On the cover: The rose garden and house at Upper Orchard, March 2, 1969
Long Island Italian Americans
History, Heritage, and Tradition
A lecture and book signing by Salvatore J. LaGumina
Tuesday, September 17, 2013, at 7 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
For Italian immigrants and their descendants, moving from “the city” out to Long Island was more than a change of address. It signaled that the family had achieved the American dream, and in turn, elements of Italian values and culture are visible all over the island. Italians helped to build Long Island, whether as laborers or as contractors, such as the Castagnas. They brought their culinary traditions and opened markets, such as the still family-owned Iavarone Brothers Foods, and restaurants, including New Hyde Park’s Umberto’s. Italians’ industriousness helped them thrive in fields as diverse as medicine, politics, acting and winemaking and importing (including the nationally recognized Banfi label). Join author Salvatore J. LaGumina to discover the remarkable contributions and vibrant culture of Italians and Italian Americans on Long Island.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Copies of Long Island Italian Americans will be available for purchase and signing.
Salvatore J. LaGumina is an emeritus professor of history at Nassau Community College, where he serves as director of the Center for Italian American Studies. He has lectured extensively in major universities in the United States and abroad. A past president of the American Italian Historical Association (AIHA), he also was the founding president of the Long Island Chapter and is the author and editor of dozens of scholarly articles and nineteen books, including The Italian American Experience: An Encyclopedia; Wop: A Documentary History of Anti Italian Discrimination; From Steerage to Suburb: Long Island Italians; Long Island Italians; Hollywood’s Italians: From Periphery to Prominenti; The Humble and the Heroic: Wartime Italian Americans; and The Great Earthquake: America Comes to Messina’s Rescue. The last two books were recipients of the Pietrio Di Donato and John Fante Literary Awards. He is married, the father of four children and lives on Long Island.
A lecture and book signing by Salvatore J. LaGumina
Tuesday, September 17, 2013, at 7 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
For Italian immigrants and their descendants, moving from “the city” out to Long Island was more than a change of address. It signaled that the family had achieved the American dream, and in turn, elements of Italian values and culture are visible all over the island. Italians helped to build Long Island, whether as laborers or as contractors, such as the Castagnas. They brought their culinary traditions and opened markets, such as the still family-owned Iavarone Brothers Foods, and restaurants, including New Hyde Park’s Umberto’s. Italians’ industriousness helped them thrive in fields as diverse as medicine, politics, acting and winemaking and importing (including the nationally recognized Banfi label). Join author Salvatore J. LaGumina to discover the remarkable contributions and vibrant culture of Italians and Italian Americans on Long Island.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Copies of Long Island Italian Americans will be available for purchase and signing.
Salvatore J. LaGumina is an emeritus professor of history at Nassau Community College, where he serves as director of the Center for Italian American Studies. He has lectured extensively in major universities in the United States and abroad. A past president of the American Italian Historical Association (AIHA), he also was the founding president of the Long Island Chapter and is the author and editor of dozens of scholarly articles and nineteen books, including The Italian American Experience: An Encyclopedia; Wop: A Documentary History of Anti Italian Discrimination; From Steerage to Suburb: Long Island Italians; Long Island Italians; Hollywood’s Italians: From Periphery to Prominenti; The Humble and the Heroic: Wartime Italian Americans; and The Great Earthquake: America Comes to Messina’s Rescue. The last two books were recipients of the Pietrio Di Donato and John Fante Literary Awards. He is married, the father of four children and lives on Long Island.
The First Sunday of Each Month
June 2, July 7, August 4, and September 1
Come enjoy all that Oyster Bay has to offer, have brunch at one of our many restaurants, then stroll the streets where local artists will be displaying their work. Our art and artisan galleries, antique shops, and consignment stores all will be open for a fun day filled with art, culture, history and great food!
The Oyster Bay Historical Society’s exhibition gallery and museum shop will be open from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm for these special Sundays.
The Oyster Bay Historical Society’s exhibition gallery and museum shop will be open from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm for these special Sundays.
Gelli Arts Printing Class at the Koenig Center
Saturday, August 17, 2013, Noon to 4:00 pm
With the Gelli Arts gel printing plate, you can make your own unique monoprints using acrylic paints and a few simple tools. We'll explore the basics of how to use the plate, how and what paints to apply, and how to create backgrounds and multi-layered printing. We'll print on paper and fabric and make a print transfer on acetate. We'll use leafing, pearl-ex powders and aluminum foil to make spectacular backgrounds!
The cost of the class is $60, and you will receive an 8 x 10 gel plate that is yours to keep. And, the use of paints, stencils, brayers, papers and all materials are included in that price. If you've already taken the class, and have your own gelli mat, you can take a studio-time workshop with us on the 17th for only $20. All the supplies will be there for you to use.
The cost of the class is $60, and you will receive an 8 x 10 gel plate that is yours to keep. And, the use of paints, stencils, brayers, papers and all materials are included in that price. If you've already taken the class, and have your own gelli mat, you can take a studio-time workshop with us on the 17th for only $20. All the supplies will be there for you to use.
Opening Reception and Awards Presentation
Saturday August 10, 7:00-9:00 p.m. The Koenig Center On August 9th and 10th thirty selected artists took part in the Teaching Studios of Art's third annual plein air competition at Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay. At the competition's conclusion, the Oyster Bay Historical Society hosedt a reception and awards presentation at the Angela Koenig Research and Collections Center.
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
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ReceptionNicole Menchise
Jacque Blocklyn Maura Burns |
Portrait Painting Demonstration
by Kristin Künc
Sunday, August 4, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Take advantage of this rare opportunity to witness an artist at work as Kristin Künc demonstrates portrait painting at the Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center.
Ms. Künc 's portraits have been featured in numerous shows and many online publications. For the past four years she has worked with Rob Zeller at Oyster Bay's Teaching Studios of Art. She and Mr. Zeller's first joint exhibition, Unframed, is currently on view at the Oyster Bay Historical Society through August 4.
In her introduction to the exhibition, Ms. Künc writes that "from very formal still lives, atmospheric landscapes and sketchy portraits this body of work illustrates the fundamental principles of classical painting taught in our classes, and offers a sneak peek into working methods while presenting a fully formed and beautiful aesthetic vision."
Kristin Kunc's demonstration takes place at the Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center, 20 Summit Street in Oyster Bay, on Sunday, August 4, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The program, offered in conjunction with the Oyster Bay Art and Antique Walk, is free and open to the public.
Ms. Künc 's portraits have been featured in numerous shows and many online publications. For the past four years she has worked with Rob Zeller at Oyster Bay's Teaching Studios of Art. She and Mr. Zeller's first joint exhibition, Unframed, is currently on view at the Oyster Bay Historical Society through August 4.
In her introduction to the exhibition, Ms. Künc writes that "from very formal still lives, atmospheric landscapes and sketchy portraits this body of work illustrates the fundamental principles of classical painting taught in our classes, and offers a sneak peek into working methods while presenting a fully formed and beautiful aesthetic vision."
Kristin Kunc's demonstration takes place at the Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center, 20 Summit Street in Oyster Bay, on Sunday, August 4, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The program, offered in conjunction with the Oyster Bay Art and Antique Walk, is free and open to the public.
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Embroidery for Kids
Oyster Bay Historical Society
Koenig Center, 20 Summit Street Saturday mornings, 10-12 AM Four classes: July 6, 13, 20, and 27 $15 per student per class, includes all materials. $50.00 for all four classes if you pre-register. Ages 7-15 4 students minimum, 15 students maximum per class |
Advocates for Historic Preservation and Education -- Tuesday, July 9, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
The Oyster Bay Historical Society is hosting the second annual Advocates for Historic Preservation and Education Awards Reception on Tuesday, July 9, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Woodlands in Woodbury. The reception will honor Long Islanders who have distinguished themselves as advocates for history’s vital role in our lives today. Because historic preservation and education are two critical elements of the Society’s core mission, it is more than fitting that we recognize those among us active in promoting Long Island’s heritage. In addition, the reception will raise funds in support of the Society’s ongoing programs and services, including exhibitions, lectures, book signings, workshops, and other community events.
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The Oyster Bay Music Festival
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Fourth of July at the Oyster Bay Historical Society
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Ice Cream Social Following the Parade Ice Cream and Cookies Lemonade and Tea Bean Bag Toss at the lawn and garden of the Oyster Bay Historical Society 20 Summit Street |
Annual Meeting
Sunday, June 16, 2013, 12 pm at The Koenig Center
Special Guest: Monica Randall
Members are invited to attend the election of Society officers and trustees, followed by Monica Randall's slide presentation on Gatsby's Long Island.
Refreshments provided. New members are encouraged to join in advance or at the door
UNFRAMED
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June 13 through August 4, 2013
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In Partnership with Sagamore Hill National Historic Site...
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March 8 through June 2, 2013Gallery Talks led by exhibition curator Xiomaro
2:00-3:00 pm Saturday, March 16 - Sunday, April 14 - Saturday, May 18 Exclusive Content: Bring your mobile device, iPad or other tablet to access content exclusive to the talk. Content will also be projected on a screen for everyone's convenience. Limited Prints For Sale: 8.5" x 11" prints from the exhibit will be available for purchase and signing $35 cash. These signed photographs are printed with the exact high-end process used to print the photographs on exhibit and will only be available at the talk. All revenue goes toward funding these exhibits. |
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The Oyster Bay Historical Society opened its spring exhibition with a reception on Friday March 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Koenig Center at 20 Summit Street in Oyster Bay. How I Love Sagamore Hill exhibits a selection of photographs by Xiomáro, who photographed the interior of the President’s House at Sagamore Hill as it stood essentially vacant after the removal of its contents and furnishings in 2012 as part of a three-year, $6.2 million structural rehabilitation. The exhibition, presented in partnership with Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, will remain on view at the Society’s Koenig Center through June 2.
During the winter of 2012, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site commissioned Xiomáro to create an artistic photographic collection of Theodore Roosevelt’s Oyster Bay house in a historically rare condition—appearing much as it did when first occupied in 1887—following the removal of the twenty-two-room house’s furnishings, rugs, trophy heads, library, artwork, and other contents. A total of over one hundred images document rooms on all three floors, including the first floor’s North Room, dining room, pantry, drawing room, hall and library. |
“So much of the Roosevelt family’s personality is revealed by the house,” said Xiomáro, “even though its occupants—and now most of its contents—are absent from the premises.” Images from the exhibition reveal not just the imposing character of America’s 26th President, but also the more intimate domestic nature of the Roosevelt family of Sagamore Hill, such as the textured sconce globes of Edith Roosevelt’s drawing room. “Some of these details,” continued Xiomáro, “may have previously been overwhelmed by furnishings, or inaccessible to visitors behind velvet rope barriers.”
Special thanks to: Xiomaro, exhibition curator Tom Ross, Superintendent Sagamore Hill National Historic Site Nicole Menchise and Jacque Blocklyn and the staff of the Oyster Bay Historical Society Admission to the exhibition and to the three gallery talks is free. |
Sea Shell Collage for Kids!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
After school (3:45)-5:00 p.m.
Inspired by the shell crafts native to the people of the Caribbean, and brought back by sailors to Long Island, the Oyster Bay Historical Society invites young artists to create a masterpiece from the bounty of the sea.
Design your own background or choose from several images like seascapes, flowers or a lighthouse. Then, create a piece of art in your style by choosing different shells and other dried natural elements. Take home a unique, framed piece of art ready to be displayed as a family keepsake or a gift for Mom!
Weather permitting this event will be held on the lawn behind the Earle-Wightman house and Colonial garden. Space is limited so please contact the Society for details or reservations at 922-5032 or obhslibrary@optonline.net . Suitable for grades 1st-3rd. $15 per child with all supplies provided and healthy snacks upon arrival.
Preservation Workshop:
Best Practices for Recording and Sharing your Family's History
Thursday April 25, 2013
6:30 to 8:00 pm
The Koenig Center
Free to Society Members
$15 (non-members)
April 21-27th is the American Library Association’s designated Preservation Week, and the Oyster Bay Historical Society is celebrating by inviting the community to a roundtable discussion on how best to record and share your family's history.
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It's been said that when a person passes away a library is lost. Interviewing a family member can be a powerful way to create a tangible account of your family's history. In their own words, family members retell their experiences that capture a unique point of view of a particular moment or of times gone by
Nicole Menchise, Archivist and Collections Manager for the Oyster Bay Historical Society and Raynham Hall Museum, will hold an informal seminar on how to conduct a well-prepared interview, including interviewing basics and procedures, settings, working with video and audio, and achieving your goals. The workshop will also guide attendees in the process of transferring old and new interviews to a digital format using free downloaded software. Discussion will include examples taken from the oral histories previously recorded for the OBHS archives. The discussion will be held Thursday, April 25, 2013, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Oyster Bay Historical Society in the Koenig Research Center (behind the Earle-Wightman House), 20 Summit Street, Oyster Bay, NY. Free to members of the Oyster Bay Historical Society (with special membership opportunities for those living in the 11771 zip code). $15 for non-members. Light refreshments will be served. Contact the Society at 516-922-5032 or email obhslibrary@optonline.net for details or to make a reservation. |
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The Underground Railroad on Long Island
Friends in Freedom
Author event and book signing
by Kathleen Velsor
The Koenig Center
Tuesday, March 19, 6:30 pm
About the book
From the arrival of the Quakers in the seventeenth century to the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, Long Island played an important role in the Underground Railroad’s work to guide slaves to freedom. In Old Westbury, the Post family established a major stop on the freedom trail with the help of an escaped Virginia slave. In Jericho, families helped escaping slaves to freedom from the present-day Maine Maid Inn. Elias Hicks helped free 191 slaves himself and worked to create Underground Railroad safe houses in many northeastern cities. Some former slaves even established permanent communities across the island. Visit the safe houses—many of which are still standing today—and explore the journey of runaway slaves on Long Island.
Author event and book signing
by Kathleen Velsor
The Koenig Center
Tuesday, March 19, 6:30 pm
About the book
From the arrival of the Quakers in the seventeenth century to the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, Long Island played an important role in the Underground Railroad’s work to guide slaves to freedom. In Old Westbury, the Post family established a major stop on the freedom trail with the help of an escaped Virginia slave. In Jericho, families helped escaping slaves to freedom from the present-day Maine Maid Inn. Elias Hicks helped free 191 slaves himself and worked to create Underground Railroad safe houses in many northeastern cities. Some former slaves even established permanent communities across the island. Visit the safe houses—many of which are still standing today—and explore the journey of runaway slaves on Long Island.
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About the author
Dr. Kathleen Gaffney Velsor is currently an associate professor in the School of Education at the State University of New York–Old Westbury. She has received numerous grants to research the Quaker involvement in the Underground Railroad on Long Island, most recent among them an education grant from the Long Island Community Foundation to establish the Underground Teaching Partnership to build community through interdisciplinary social studies workshops for schoolteachers. In her research supporting the Underground Railroad, she has published a historical novel for young adult readers. She has also published three other books--Friends of Freedom: The Underground Railroad in Queens, Long Island and Beyond (2006); The Road to Freedom (2001), a supplemental text for seventh graders; and Angel of Deliverance: The Underground Railroad in Queens, Long Island (1999)—all published by the Queens Historical Society. Two articles of hers appeared in the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society Journal. Dr. Velsor teaches undergraduate courses in the Department of Elementary Education and Literacy. Kathleen lives with her family in Bayville, New York. |
Ninety Years of Conservation
Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary Fountain (photo, E Roosevelt)
The Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center
Presented by Sanctuary Director Ted Scherff and Jennifer Zaso of NY Audubon
Thursday, March 14, 2013, at 7 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
In 1923 the Audubon Society was entrusted with twelve acres of land in Oyster Bay to preserve in memory of Theodore Roosevelt. With foresight worthy of its namesake, Audubon created the very first sanctuary for songbirds in America—the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center. This year, 2013, represents a very special year in the Sanctuary’s history—its 90th Anniversary.
Ted Scherff, Sanctuary Director, and Jennifer Zaso of New York Audubon, will present a program highlighting the history of the Sanctuary and its role going forward in promoting conservation in Oyster Bay and Long Island.
The Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center is central to Audubon’s work on Long Island, pursuing policy and advocacy initiatives that focus on the restoration and protection of Long Island Sound, while providing conservation and education programs such as the Long Island Bird Conservation Program, For the Birds! Elementary Education, and Summer Sanctuary Adventures.
The program is free and open to the public.
For more information, please call the Historical Society at 516-922-5032, or email us at obhsdirector@optonline.net
Presented by Sanctuary Director Ted Scherff and Jennifer Zaso of NY Audubon
Thursday, March 14, 2013, at 7 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
In 1923 the Audubon Society was entrusted with twelve acres of land in Oyster Bay to preserve in memory of Theodore Roosevelt. With foresight worthy of its namesake, Audubon created the very first sanctuary for songbirds in America—the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center. This year, 2013, represents a very special year in the Sanctuary’s history—its 90th Anniversary.
Ted Scherff, Sanctuary Director, and Jennifer Zaso of New York Audubon, will present a program highlighting the history of the Sanctuary and its role going forward in promoting conservation in Oyster Bay and Long Island.
The Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center is central to Audubon’s work on Long Island, pursuing policy and advocacy initiatives that focus on the restoration and protection of Long Island Sound, while providing conservation and education programs such as the Long Island Bird Conservation Program, For the Birds! Elementary Education, and Summer Sanctuary Adventures.
The program is free and open to the public.
For more information, please call the Historical Society at 516-922-5032, or email us at obhsdirector@optonline.net
In Partnership with Sagamore Hill National Historic Site...
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.Opening Reception
Friday, March 8, 6:00-8:00 pm The Koenig Center Featuring live music and a chance to win one 8.5 x 11 inch print of a photograph from the exhibition. Serving... Greek Salad Skewers
Zucchini Fritters Thai Chicken Satay Parmesan Cheese Twists Walnut Toffee Bars Pignoli Cookies |
Women in Long Island's Past
A History of Eminent Ladies and Everyday Lives
Presented by Natalie A. Naylor
Sunday, February 24, 2013 at 2 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
Nationally notable women and local leaders have been part of Long Island’s history, though nearly invisible in most accounts. Authors and artists, sunksquaws and suffragists, pioneering pilots and the Janes who made the planes, and innumerable other women have all left their mark on Long Island’s past. Among the Oyster Bay women who will be included are the three Wright sisters banished from Boston in the 17th century: Mary Cooper, a Colonial housewife; Ethel Roosevelt Derby, “First Lady of Oyster Bay” and an exemplary civic activist; and Bertja Benkard Rose who first restored Raynham Hall and Sagamore Hill. The speaker, Natalie Naylor, a retired Hofstra University professor, is the author of Women in Long Island’s Past: Eminent Ladies and Everyday Lives (2012). She is retired from Hofstra University where she taught American social history, including women’s history and Long Island history.
The lecture is free and open to the public.
Download a summary of Women in Long Island's Past here.
Presented by Natalie A. Naylor
Sunday, February 24, 2013 at 2 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
Nationally notable women and local leaders have been part of Long Island’s history, though nearly invisible in most accounts. Authors and artists, sunksquaws and suffragists, pioneering pilots and the Janes who made the planes, and innumerable other women have all left their mark on Long Island’s past. Among the Oyster Bay women who will be included are the three Wright sisters banished from Boston in the 17th century: Mary Cooper, a Colonial housewife; Ethel Roosevelt Derby, “First Lady of Oyster Bay” and an exemplary civic activist; and Bertja Benkard Rose who first restored Raynham Hall and Sagamore Hill. The speaker, Natalie Naylor, a retired Hofstra University professor, is the author of Women in Long Island’s Past: Eminent Ladies and Everyday Lives (2012). She is retired from Hofstra University where she taught American social history, including women’s history and Long Island history.
The lecture is free and open to the public.
Download a summary of Women in Long Island's Past here.
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Cabin Fever February
Workshops, Demonstrations, and Lectures
Saturday, February 9, 12:30-4:30 CANCELED DUE TO SNOW
Diana Kovacs, class instructor
Paper Napkin Book
$35
Saturday, February 16, 12:30-4:30
Diana Kovacs, class instructor
Vintage Greeting-Card Holders
$30
Saturday, February 23, 12:30-4:30
Diana Kovacs, class instructor
Card-Making Extravaganza
$30
Sunday, February 24, 2:00
Natalie Naylor speaks on Women in Long Island’s Past
Free and open to the public
Mold Making Workshop
With Seth Nagelberg
Presented by the Long Island Craft Guild
$75 (Craft Guild members)
$85 (non-members)
The Koenig Center
Oyster Bay Historical Society
20 Summit Street in Oyster Bay
Sunday, February 17, 2013
10:00 - 4:00
For more information contact Mia at clayarts.ob@gmail.com
or call the Historical Society at 516-922-5032
Exodus from Exmore
Out of Virginia to Oyster Bay in 1930s America
Presented by Denice S. Evans-Sheppard
The Koenig Center
Saturday, February 2, 2013
2 pm
In recognition of Black History Month, Denice S. Evans-Sheppard will tell the family stories of those who made their way from Exmore, a small town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, to Oyster Bay in the decades before the Second World War. The program, based on interviews with William Reid, Melvina James, and others, will examine the life stories of those who left Jim-Crow Virginia for the promise of opportunities on Long Island. Many of the men first found jobs in the clam and oyster fisheries, while women began as domestics on the estates of Oyster Bay Cove, Centre Island, and Locust Valley. Many attended the A.M.E. Zion Church before establishing the Mount Olive Baptist Church. By the 1950s, these families were working for the Town of Oyster Bay, Republic Airport, and Grumman.
Presented by Denice S. Evans-Sheppard
The Koenig Center
Saturday, February 2, 2013
2 pm
In recognition of Black History Month, Denice S. Evans-Sheppard will tell the family stories of those who made their way from Exmore, a small town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, to Oyster Bay in the decades before the Second World War. The program, based on interviews with William Reid, Melvina James, and others, will examine the life stories of those who left Jim-Crow Virginia for the promise of opportunities on Long Island. Many of the men first found jobs in the clam and oyster fisheries, while women began as domestics on the estates of Oyster Bay Cove, Centre Island, and Locust Valley. Many attended the A.M.E. Zion Church before establishing the Mount Olive Baptist Church. By the 1950s, these families were working for the Town of Oyster Bay, Republic Airport, and Grumman.
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As part of the program, flutist Cherokee Bunn and her accompanist will perform a selection of songs popularized by Ella Fitzgerald and other jazz musicians.
Free and open to the public. Light refreshments provided. Donations to the Koenig Center's Beverly Mohlenhoff Fund are most welcome |
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For One English Officer
Rifleman Bernard Rader, 94th Infantry
Bernard Rader and the Prisoner of War Exchange of 1944
Tuesday, January 29, 2013, at 6:30 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
Free and Open to the Public
On January 29, The Oyster Bay Historical Society will screen the documentary For One English Officer, the story of Andrew Gerow Hodges' liberation of 149 Allied prisoners of war during World War II. One of the prisoners freed, Legion of Honor medalist Bernard Rader of Freeport, will be on hand following the screening to speak of his own personal experiences at the time.
The 49-minute film recounts Mr Hodges’ November 1944 negotiations as the American Red Cross’s Senior Field Director to exchange Allied POWs starving in two German camps in Brittany. It proved to be the only such exchange during the entire war in Europe, for which Mr Hodges received a Bronze Star.
Mr. Rader, a rifleman in the 94th Infantry Division, 301st Regiment, Company K, was injured in an ambush and taken prisoner for six weeks before his exchange. In November 2007, he received France’s highest civilian award, the Legion of Honor, from French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
For One English Officer is directed by independent film maker T. N. Mohan. Hobart Grooms and Angela Burchett are co-producers.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013, at 6:30 p.m.
Oyster Bay Historical Society's Koenig Center
Free and Open to the Public
On January 29, The Oyster Bay Historical Society will screen the documentary For One English Officer, the story of Andrew Gerow Hodges' liberation of 149 Allied prisoners of war during World War II. One of the prisoners freed, Legion of Honor medalist Bernard Rader of Freeport, will be on hand following the screening to speak of his own personal experiences at the time.
The 49-minute film recounts Mr Hodges’ November 1944 negotiations as the American Red Cross’s Senior Field Director to exchange Allied POWs starving in two German camps in Brittany. It proved to be the only such exchange during the entire war in Europe, for which Mr Hodges received a Bronze Star.
Mr. Rader, a rifleman in the 94th Infantry Division, 301st Regiment, Company K, was injured in an ambush and taken prisoner for six weeks before his exchange. In November 2007, he received France’s highest civilian award, the Legion of Honor, from French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
For One English Officer is directed by independent film maker T. N. Mohan. Hobart Grooms and Angela Burchett are co-producers.
Valentine's Day Card Making Class
Saturday, January 19, 2013
12:30-4:30 at the Koenig Center
It's time for some new classes!
On Saturday, January 19th, from 12:30 to 4:30, the Oyster Bay Historical Society will be hosting a card class by Diana Kovacs of The Moonrose Art Stamps.
The romance of Valentine's Day, of course, will be the theme of the afternoon, but birthday cards will be part of it, too. We'll be using lots of glitter, spritz, embossing and shine in making these cards. Lots of bling and drama! We're also going to take on a paper-shaping technique for added va-va-voom and volume.
The cost of the class is $30, which includes all of the supplies to make six different cards. Register here, or visit www.themoonroseartstamps.com