A decade-long project to install historical plaques throughout the hamlet of Oyster Bay is nearing completion, with eight of nine planned plaques now in place. The markers, part of a collaborative effort among the Town of Oyster Bay, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site and local organizations, aim to highlight the rich history of this storied community.
“This collaboration between the Town and Sagamore Hill National Historic Site transforms downtown Oyster Bay into a dynamic hub of historical significance,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino wrote in a statement, “inviting families, students, and history enthusiasts to explore the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt without leaving Long Island.
The initiative initially resulted in the installation of three plaques in 2014, but logistical and administrative hurdles stalled the remaining installations. The project was revived in 2023, and since then, markers have been placed at sites including the Derby Hall Bandstand, the Moore Building (now home to Wild Honey), the historic railroad station and the Fisher Building.
“We encourage all visitors to Sagamore Hill to explore Oyster Bay to better understand the places that shaped Theodore Roosevelt and the Roosevelt family,” Jonathan Parker, superintendent of the national historic site, wrote in a statement. “These historic panels, through an outstanding partnership with the Town, reveal the significance and meaning of these important historical locations for local residents and visitors alike.”
The final plaque, set to be installed at the Oyster Bay Bank building, will complete the project. This marks a wider effort by the town to highlight the hamlet’s long and varied history to encourage local tourism and increase foot traffic for downtown businesses.
“We’re working with Sagamore Hill and others like the Historical Society and Raynham Hall to begin to provide more of a destination for folks outside of Oyster Bay,” Town Clerk Rich LaMarca explained. “We want people to come here to see the great history that we have.”
With 21 historical markers already at Sagamore Hill and nine spread across the hamlet, the newest plaques are a testament to Oyster Bay’s unique status as both a vibrant local community and a hub for national heritage.
“What a gem we have here in Oyster Bay,” LaMarca said. “It’s important to preserve and showcase our history to attract visitors and educate residents about our heritage.”
Howard Ehrlich, chief executive of the Theodore Roosevelt Association, also highlighted the project’s significance. “Our organization has always championed efforts to preserve and promote local history,” Ehrlich said. “With these plaques, you can really see how Oyster Bay and Theodore Roosevelt are one.”
“I see families and friends gathering at these plaques, reading about our history,” LaMarca said. “As they walk through town, they’re also exploring our shops and restaurants. This is a win for local businesses and a way to keep our downtown vibrant.”
He cited the augmented-reality exhibits at Raynham Hall Museum and the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum, where visitors can use an app to bring historical figures to life, as models for integrating history with modern technology.
“These markers are part of a broader effort to make Oyster Bay a destination that blends its historic charm with contemporary appeal,” LaMarca said.
There are markers at historical sites including Christ Church, the Youngs Cemetery and the Audubon Sanctuary. They also commemorate Oyster Bay’s contributions to national history, particularly through the community’s connections to Roosevelt.
LaMarca emphasized the importance of preserving local knowledge, noting historian John Hammond’s contributions to documenting the area’s history.
“John’s knowledge is unparalleled, but we need to ensure that it’s passed on,” LaMarca said. “These plaques are one way to do that, by making history accessible to everyone.”
With the installation of the final plaque scheduled for this spring, the project underscores the town’s commitment to preserving its history. “This is part of a larger vision for Oyster Bay,” LaMarca said. “It’s such a great project, and I’m so happy to be a part of it.”
Ehrlich echoed that sentiment. “Projects like these remind us of the importance of preserving our shared heritage,” he said. “They’re a gift to the community and to future generations.”
