A clock tower dramatically comes into view when you approach the Village of Roslyn, on the North Shore of Long Island. Previously known as Hempstead Harbor, the incorporated Village of Roslyn came into being in 1844. In 2019, this quaint village is known not only for its historic heritage but also for its numerous restaurants.
Growing up in France, you are always surrounded by art and history wherever you go. The country as well as Europe know how to preserve the old by incorporated new elements. The best example is the Pyramid du Louvre that created so much controversies when it was built by architect I. M. Pei in 1989
Coming to New York I always like the juxtaposition of old and new buildings. Later when I moved to Roslyn, I got involved with the Roslyn Historic District Board which monitors any renovation, construction in the village. My main dilemma is how to preserve the old, which is important while giving a chance to new constructions which are not replica of 1900 construction but constructions or renovations of their time, 21st century. You need to educate yourself and the people around you to keep this balance between preservation and history.
For Craig, he has been living in Roslyn since 1989. A trustee on the village board, former President of the Roslyn Landmark Society (RLS) and previously Chairman of the Historic Board, he explains that Roslyn is known for its historic preservation and significant buildings, ‘’we have Trinity Church built by the architect Stanford White (1906), Cedarmere, the country home of the 19th Century poet William Cullen Bryant and also for one of the oldest surviving building in Nassau County, the Van Nortrand-Starkins House which dates from 1680.’’ The RLS is also embarking in restoring the grist mill which was built around 1700.
As architect and designer, it is important to be involved in the community and share our knowledge of buildings, how to renovate and preserve them.
The Gerry's saved Roslyn
The preservation movement started in the 1960’s. Roger and Peggy Gerry were solely responsible for preserving the village. Peggy, a soul heiress to one of the biggest canners east of the Mississippi and her husband Roger, a naval officer and a plastic surgeon, decided to live in the village.
As most of the buildings were dilapidated and falling apart, one by one they saved them. Now, approximately 125 antique buildings exist in the historic districts.
Roslyn Now
Since then the village has slowly inherited larger buildings which has changed the complexion of the village. ‘’The village is getting more populated and there are more buildings than there used to be when I moved to Roslyn’’ says my husband Craig Westergard.
What is unique to Roslyn is its commercial district. Unfortunately, like many other downtown areas around the country, it has lost vibrancy because of big-box stores and internet shopping. Now storefronts have become restaurants, from upscale Greek to a steak and seafood house.
On one hand It is a good thing because the buildings are occupied but on another hand the village has a tremendous traffic problem especially on the weekend Craig Westergard
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