Grist Mill Supporters Petition Lawmakers

By Joe Scotchie

Renovation of the Roslyn Grist Mill on Old Northern Boulevard has been stated as a top priority for local politicians, especially those on the Roslyn Board of Trustees. Experts have warned that any renovation on the 300-plus-year-old wood structure will have to be done soon; as such, the BOT hopes to have the job done before and at least at the mill's 300th anniversary four years from now.

Toward that end, the village's "1701 Grist Mill Committee" has gathered over 1,000 signatures on a petition they intend to send to the Nassau County Legislature. For the past year, a $1.2 million bond act that would pay for much of the renovation process has been before that body.

The petition, in short, asks legislatures to "support appropriating the necessary funds in the county budget to restore the....Grist Mill....in the historic Village of Roslyn. This restoration project will preserve a significant historical landmark that is a valuable part of the rich colonial heritage of Nassau County."

Of course, the committee is looking for all the signatures it can get. Anyone interested in signing the petition may call Village Hall at 621-1961 or write to Dr. George Williams, 1701 Grist Mill Committee, 1200 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn.

The committee's biggest ally in the project is Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Gulotta. Last spring, Mr. Gulotta journeyed to Roslyn to announce his support for the bond act.

In an effort to show grass roots support to the renovation project, the committee held a gala fund raiser last August at the George Washington Manor. The fund raiser attracted up to 250 people, each of whom paid $30 to attend. In addition, the evening featured 150 items and gifts on the auction block. Both corporate heavyweights such as The New York Times, NBC, and Loews/Sony Theaters contributed items as did numerous local small businesses, including the Roslyn Deli, Jolly Fisherman, Diane's Restaurant, Friend of A Farmer, and Giordino Cafe.

In March of 1997, Dr. Gordon Jacoby, a research scientist at Columbia University told members of the Roslyn Landmark Society that time is running out for any serious renovation work. The wood for the Grist Mill, Dr. Jacoby claimed, was "born" in 1680. Needless to say, the wood structure is fragile and deteriorating and the necessary work to save the mill must be done soon.

The fund raiser drew people from all over Long Island and with good reason. The mill does have a colorful history. Over the centuries, it has been home to a grinding mill, a museum and throughout much of this century, a popular Tea House.