Fishermen and baymen, duck hunters and decoy carvers, clamshell artists and lifeguards are just some of the tradition bearers featured here. Through oral histories, Long Island Traditions has documented dozens of those committed to preserving a life on the water. Most are participants in our maritime education programs or festivals and museum programs. If you […]
Islip, Oakdale, West Sayville, Sayville, Bellport, Bayport, Patchogue and Brookhaven Hamlet Please visit the survey for tips and suggestions on how to document your house and community. Islip Islip and Great River are two of the oldest communities in the estuary, originally inhabited by the Secatogues, Pentaquit and Connetquot Native American tribes. In the 1600s William […]
George Combs comes from a long line of baymen and rum runners in Freeport. Listen to his stories about the legendary Bill McCoy and other characters during Prohibition.
The 1920s was an interesting time on Long Island, with the passage of the Volstead Act that prohibited the importing and consuming of alcoholic beverages, ushering in the prohibition era. Many residents turned to local baymen and other boat owners to help satisfy their demand for wine and liquor through illegal smuggling and homegrown moonshine. […]
In this video several people who knew Guy Lombardo personally reflect on his passion and love of the water. The piece was produced for LI Traditions for its Freeport Waters exhibit.
Bayman Cory Weyant lived on the Nautical Mile for his entire life (1957-2011). In this video listen to his memories on how Woodcleft Canal changed, accompanied by historic photographs.
There are countless stories and tales told by baymen, bay rats, bay house owners, fishermen and other tradition bearers for both entertainment and to educate friends and neighbors about life on the water. While some stories are humorous, others reflect an appreciation of the bay and the ocean. We hope you enjoy listening to some […]
Bayman Cory Weyant shared some of his stories about working on the bay over many years with folklorist Nancy Solomon of Long Island Traditions. This video is part of the Freeport Waters exhibit which opened in 2016.
The Fisheries The south shore is world famous for the many species of fish and shellfish that live year round, spawn or give birth, or rest on their way to warmer or colder habitats. Fluke and flounder, clams and crabs, and bait fish such as killeys, bunker and spearing are just the tip of the […]
Since at least the days of the ancient Egyptians, hunters have tried to lure waterfowl into range of their nets and weapons with decoys made of rush, reed or wood. Native Americans on Long Island, prior to contact with Europeans in the 17th century, harvested waterfowl for food and plumage. European settlers on Long Island […]