By Sydney Spier
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My name is Sydney Spier and I’m a student in Roslyn High School’s podcasting class. I created my own show, The History Around Us, to uncover hidden or surprising historical stories connected to Long Island. In this episode, I investigate the massive Horse Tamer statue at the entrance of Roslyn High School—where it came from, why it’s here, and what it represents.
Curious about the statue’s origins, I turned to the Roslyn Landmark Society for research, which served as a great source of information, allowing me to piece together a narrative. I also interviewed its Board President, Howard Kroplick. Through my research, I discovered the statue’s connection to the Mackay Estate, its fall into disrepair, and how Roslyn alumni led a successful restoration campaign. This episode highlights not only a unique piece of Roslyn’s past but also the power of community in preserving local history.
About The History Around Us, Episode 3: Relics of Roslyn: The Horse Tamer Statue
Thirteen years ago, Roslyn High School alumni organized to restore an enormous, yet dilapidated and in ruins statue known as the “Horse Tamer.” A decade, lots of controversy, and $150,000 later, the statue has been resurrected, restored and returned to the front entrance of Roslyn High School.
This restoration was no easy task. Many parts were missing and red straps held the statue together. In 2012, the district placed the statue in storage to prevent further damage. That's when the alumni stepped in– they knew the value of the statue to the Roslyn Community and wanted to save it. A group was even formed to track the fundraising and restoration efforts. Despite numerous issues and an increasing price, the efforts were successful. After a seven-year absence, the newly restored Horse Tamer Statue was returned in 2019– standing as a symbol for generations to come.
Now, why would so many different people pour so much time, money, and effort into saving a statue? The truth is, it's not just a statue. A century ago, Roslyn wasn't made up of thousands of houses like we know today— but rather a single estate, owned by Clarence Mackay. It was 576 acres, with an enormous Renaissance-style mansion as the centerpiece. The estate was divided into formal gardens and for the west garden, two 25-ton sculptures were commissioned. Clarence Mackay donated the land for the high school to be built upon, and his wife, Katherine, served on the school board as its first female trustee. After the estate was ultimately demolished, one of the statues was given to Roslyn High School. Considering the Mackay's deep ties to the District, the crumbling statue gave reason for many to come together and save it.
To find out more, tune into this episode where host Sydney Spier explores the history of the Mackay Estate, the Horse Tamer statue, the significance of the statue's home at Roslyn High School today, and the importance of school districts on Long Island.
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