September 20, 2009 - West Islip Country Fair

Thanks to members who manned the table, and supporters who donated raffle gifts, this was a very successful exhibit.  Many people stopped to view the maps that hung on the fence, and ask questions about our group.  We hope new members will join us.

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J.DiPalma, C.Agenjo, K.Crumlish, G.Parrington, L.Carter, D.MacGilvray, S.Flotteron, J.Mangiaracina, R.Finnegan, K.Lang

On Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2009 - we gathered to place flags on the graves at the littleWeeks-Muncy Cemetery - then met at the Paul Bellew School for the ceremonies after the parade to present  a memorial wreath.

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Remembering West Islip….

There have been many changes as West Islip grew and developed into the community we know today. Although there is no mention of West Islip in a NYS Gazetteer from 1860, it does appear on old maps from that time. In 1874, it is noted as a place with people of “wealth and ease” and in 1885, it is mentioned as a suburb of Babylon, having 398 residents. By 1930, there were 734 residents, and today we number 29,000.

Most of the large estates, historical sites and farms are gone now, but many people still remember them.

The West Islip Historical Society wants to gather your stories, photographs, and local memorabilia. Let’s not forget what our community was like as it grew. Join us in this effort to preserve those memories, and share them with others.

Our meetings are usually on Thursdays (alt.  day and evening meetings) at the West Islip Library, 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip.   

At some of our meetings, we've enjoyed having members talk, sharing their memories.  Everyone enjoys these stories - we hope more people volunteer this way!  Come a little early if you have photos to be scanned. 

Next Meeting:   Mar. 18 - 2-4pm - we'll discuss plans to file for non-profit status.  Join us!  :)

 (Meetings and Programs start on the half-hour but come early if you have items to discuss or contribute.)  For more information, please call the Library at 661-7082 or email us:      wihistory@optonline.net

Feb. 18, 7-9 (cancelled)     Mar. 18, 2-4     Apr. 15, 7-9     May 20, 2-4     Jun. 24, 7-9