Roslyn Village Historic District

Nestled in the charming town of North Hempstead, New York, the Roslyn Village Historic District is a delightful journey through time. This district, recognized in 1987 by the National Register of Historic Places, serves as a living museum of architectural styles and historical significance, offering visitors a unique glimpse into America's past.

The Heartbeat of Roslyn

The Roslyn Village Historic District encompasses the vibrant center of Roslyn, a place where history and modernity harmoniously coexist. This district includes the earlier Main Street Historic District but extends to cover more commercial structures along the Old Northern Boulevard. This boulevard arches gracefully through the heart of Roslyn, diverging from the North Hempstead Turnpike, the main thoroughfare of Long Island's North Shore.

Spanning 26 acres, the district is a tapestry of architectural styles from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The majority of the area falls within the Main Street District, which stretches from Glen Avenue to the intersection with East Broadway. The Roslyn Village District, however, unites the remaining buildings in the triangle formed by Main Street, East Broadway, and Old Northern Boulevard, with some areas extending along Glen Avenue up to State Route 25A and the old northern mill pond.

A Walk Through History

The roots of Roslyn's development date back to the mid-17th century, with growth initially centered around Main Street. The pace quickened after the Declaration of Independence, with most of the houses on Main Street constructed in the early 19th century. Post-Civil War, the demand for homes in Roslyn remained high, leading builders and buyers to turn their attention to East Broadway. This street, sharing the steep hillsides and shoreline of Roslyn Pond with Main Street, saw significant development by the end of the 19th century, predominantly featuring Victorian architecture.

James K. Davis, an influential figure in Roslyn's architectural history, embraced the Second Empire style with its distinctive mansard roofs for his own house at 139 East Broadway in 1876. Another notable example is Evangeline Charman's house at 207 East Broadway, built in 1895 in the Queen Anne style.

Architectural Gems

The early 20th century saw further development along the fringes of the district. A standout addition was the Bryant Library, constructed in 1921 in the Colonial Revival style, which remains a dominant landmark within the historic district. By 1930, East Broadway had achieved a level of development similar to Main Street, allowing the neighborhood to preserve its historical character as builders moved on to other parts of Roslyn.

The Roslyn Landmark Society, established in the 1960s, played a crucial role in identifying and protecting historical structures within the village. Their efforts led to the creation of the Main Street Historic District and the relocation of threatened buildings to East Broadway for better preservation. In 1979, an expanded list of historic buildings was submitted to the National Park Service, resulting in the recognition of the Roslyn Village Historic District as a separate entity due to its distinct visual and historical identity.

Preservation Efforts

Roslyn has enacted ordinances to protect the buildings within its historic districts. Any alterations or demolitions must be approved by a six-member board, ensuring that the architectural integrity and historical significance of the district are maintained. The Roslyn Landmark Society also holds building restrictions for some properties, further safeguarding the village's heritage.

Visitors to the Roslyn Village Historic District can expect to be enchanted by its well-preserved architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a picturesque place to explore, Roslyn offers a delightful escape into the past. Stroll along the quaint streets, admire the diverse architectural styles, and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped this unique village. The Roslyn Village Historic District is not just a place to visit; it's a place to experience history firsthand.