Sayville Historical Society Holds Open House

With the pathways to its centuries-old buildings lit brightly with luminaries, the Sayville Historical Society held its open house on November 27. Typically held on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, it has been a tradition the Society has conducted for close to three decades.

The open house event features a representation of food, drink and clothing from German, Dutch and English traditions. From Farmer's Punch to flaming English plum pudding, the food and drink meshed well with the scenes and dress in each different room.

"This is our kickoff to the holiday season," said Suzanne Robilotta, vice president of the organization. "We do this traditionally as a gift to the community so they can come and experience Sayville like it was back then."

Aside from the cookies, breads and other treats, there was entertainment as well. There was a reading of the Night Before Christmas. In years past, there was also musical entertainment provided by high school students. In the adjacent building, a train exhibit was set up courtesy of the folks at Long Island N Trak and Great South Bay Railroad.

For the past four years, the Miracle on Main Festival has coincided with the Society's open house, something that Robilotta hopes won't effect attendance. "Years ago, they would light the tree in town, and then everyone would walk down here for the open house," she said. "We hope that residents still come down and tour our facilities and take part in our open house event."