The Roslyn Landmark Society has announced it has received a $69,599 grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation to support the restoration of the historic Mackay Estate Gate Lodge. This generous contribution will be instrumental in replacing the Gate Lodge's deteriorating doors and windows, preserving the architectural integrity of this iconic landmark.
“My thanks go to the Landmark Society and Howard Kroplick for all of the work in getting this grant done,” stated Mayor of East Hills, New York, Michael R. Koblenz. “We look forward to reestablishing the Mackay Gates as when the Mackey's lived there. It's a huge project for the village and it'll be outstanding when it's done.”
"The Roslyn Landmark Society remains committed to the renovation, restoration and adaptive reuse of their communities' historic structures. They are a model of historic preservation stewardship," said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.
The Mackay Estate Gate Lodge, designed in 1899 and built from 1900 to 1902, served as the entrance to the expansive estate of Clarence H. Mackay, a prominent financier and industrialist. The Gate Lodge, styled as a Tudor Revival, features intricate stonework, half-timbered framing, and a slate roof.
On September 3, 2017, the Village of East Hills decided to acquire the Mackay Estate Gate Lodge. The Town of North Hempstead agreed, and a subdivision was approved by Nassau County. The deed to the gate lodge was transferred to the Village of East Hills in December 2021. With the guidance of the Roslyn Landmark Society, the restoration of the Mackay Estate Gate Lodge began on January 25, 2022, with the removal of debris and trees that were dangerously overhanging the structure. Over time, the lodge's doors and windows have succumbed to wear and tear, detracting from its aesthetic appeal.
The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, established in 1987, is committed to the study of Long Island history and its role in the American experience. The foundation's generous grant will enable the Roslyn Landmark Society to maintain the architectural integrity of this landmark and ensure its preservation for years to come.
"The Gate Lodge proudly stands at the entrance to two of Long Island’s historic villages, East Hills and Roslyn,” said Howard Kroplick, Co-President of the Roslyn Landmark Society. "This grant will play a crucial role in restoring the Gate Lodge to its former glory for all to enjoy."
The Roslyn Landmark Society is actively seeking additional funding to complete the restoration of the Mackay Estate Gate Lodge. Interested donors are encouraged to visit RoslynLandmarks.org or contact the organization directly for more information on how to help restore this artifact of Long Island illustrious past.
Photo Caption: Jennifer Lister, Kathy Curran, and Jaime Karbowiak at the North Shore Land Alliance in Locust Valley, 12/14/23, Photograph courtesy of Roslyn Landmark Society
Photo Caption: Mackay Estate Gate Lodge, South Wall, photograph courtesy of Roslyn Landmark Society
Photo Caption: Mackay Estate Gate Lodge, Front Entrance, photograph courtesy of Roslyn Landmark Society
1 Comments
Preservation at its finest that all will have the privilege to see for many generations to come. I can only admire the spirit and genuine enthusiasm and care that the Roslyn Landmark Society have shown and continue to show. To all the members who support the Landmark Society and especially the officers
the effort is outstanding. History will always be saved and cherished as it should through the Roslyn Landmarks Society.