Press Release

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Oyster Bay Railroad Museum

102 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

Website: www.obrm.org

Contact: John Specce, President - 516-558-7036 

Email: johnspecce@gmail.com

Historic Oyster Bay Railroad Station Exterior Nears Completion

Oyster Bay, New York, July 7, 2020 — Over the last year, the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum has been involved in the restoration of the exterior of the historic landmark railroad station.  Engaging the services of skilled craftsmen and under the supervision of historic building design consultant John Collins of Oyster Bay, the renovation is nearing completion.  Extensive and painstaking work has been accomplished, including the replacement of doors, windows, brickwork, roof restoration, and the refurbishment of stucco and oyster shells on the facade.

     This project brings another venue to the period circa 1902 when Theodore Roosevelt was president.  It was a time when he travelled to and from his home at Sagamore Hill to New York City, Washington D.C. and beyond by train.  When completed the station will become the permanent home of the Museum, a venue which will facilitate its fundamental mission, which is to inspire and educate students and others through the exploration of active and static displays, exhibits and artifacts, in an historic learning environment.

     Considerable funds have been raised, thanks to generous contributions, donations and grants from private, corporate and governmental agencies.  Most recently, the Museum was the recipient of a $100,000 matching grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation. 

"The Museum will be a key site for all those interested in experiencing Teddy Roosevelt's time on Long Island.  At the entrance  to the Roosevelt Memorial Park, it will, in addition  to other venues honoring the president, add another layer to the President's story", says Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.  The Foundation, established in 1937, primarily supports the study of New York State history.

 "With the exterior of the station nearing completion, we are grateful to the many who contributed to the project.  Going forward, the challenge will be seeking funding for the interior restoration of the historic building, which will include new heating, air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting among other items.  We welcome any and all contributions/donations of money, labor, and materials, towards the goal of restoring the interior." says John Specce, Museum President.   

      The Museum is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization, fully accredited with the New York State Education Department, and operates the station through a contract with the Town of Oyster Bay, a long-time supporter of its mission.  To make a donation and/or obtain more information regarding the Museum, please visit the website at www.obrm.org.

OBRS Restoration Committee: Bill Sheeline, John Collins, John Specce, Gary Farkash, David Morrison