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 our March & April meetings, we were happily surprised to have Uwe Paulsen and William Zawrucha 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.
We plan to have scanning services available at the library any Thursday between 12 and 6 - but call first to be sure Carolyn is there.
Next meeting: Thursday, May 22, 7:30 - 9pm !!Please note change of date!!
For more information, please call the Library at 661-7082 or email us: