Bicentennial Journal Celebrates Past and Present

From The Ossining Bicentennial Committee:

The Ossining Bicentennial Committee is pleased to announce that The Ossining Story: A Bicentennial Celebration 1813–2013 is now available for purchase.  This special-edition souvenir journal commemorates Ossining’s 200th birthday, honoring its past and present. Ossining became the first incorporated village in Westchester County in 1813, when it was still known as Sing Sing. 

"Ossining has a wonderfully rich history,” says George Camp, chair of the Bicentennial Committee.  “This book not only highlights our heritage, but also shows what a great community we have as we move forward in the next century."

The journal is the culmination of the work of many Ossining residents who cherish our village’s history. Its managing editor, Martha Mesiti, Town Historian and a lifelong resident, reached out to the organizations that comprise Ossining’s vibrant community to share their histories.  Over 60 groups responded, including the Police and Fire Departments, houses of worship, educational groups, military groups, historical organizations, social and service groups, and more.  Mesiti also commissioned articles of historic interest from local authors and historians, covering such topics as the village’s unique architecture, Sing Sing marble, Sing Sing prison, and historic personalities like the Old Leather Man.

The rich resources at the Ossining Historical Society Museum provided the journal’s special visual appeal. There are historic photographs from the W.A. Slater Photograph Collection and the museum’s archives, an 1891 map of Sing Sing, and a stunning cover image from an oil painting by 19th century landscape artist Robert Havell, Jr.  

The 160-page book is only $10 a copy, and will be available at all Bicentennial events.  In addition you can pick up your copy at the Ossining Municipal Building (16 Croton Ave.), Ossining Public Library (53 Croton Ave.), Joseph G. Caputo Community Center (95 Broadway), and the Dorsey Funeral Home (14 Emwilton Pl.).  Copies may also be purchased online at the Village of Ossining Web site www.villageofossining.org and www.CelebrateOssining.org.