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Nassau County Gives $71k Grant for Historic Mackay Horse in Roslyn


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 19, 2016
MEDIA CONTACTS: Carole Trottere, Rebecca Cheng, Sam Marksheid, and Vicki DiStefano | (516) 869-7794

Nassau County Gives $71k Grant for Historic Mackay Horse in Roslyn

Funding to be used for plaques, lighting and fencing around statue


North Hempstead, NY – North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth and Council Member Anna Kaplan were proud to announce this week that the Town has received a $71,000 Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) grant from Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D-Glen Cove) to complete the Mackay Horse Statue project at Gerry Pond Park in Roslyn.

The funding will provide historical markers and benefactor plaques, develop a plaza and seating near the statue’s foundation, provide snow fences during the winter months and permanent lighting throughout the year.

Back in October 2013, the Town, in partnership with the Roslyn Landmark Society, marked the historic return of the Mackay Horse Statue to the village of Roslyn where it first appeared 93 years ago at the Harbor Hill mansion, the Gold Coast-era estate of Clarence and Katherine Duer Mackay. The “horse tamer” statue is one of the two that once stood on the 648-acre Harbor Hill mansion, with the other now displayed at Roslyn High School.

“I was happy to be able to furnish the finishing touches for this historic work of art,” said Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton. “The plaza, seating and lighting will allow people to really appreciate the beauty of the sculpture.”

“Preserving our history is a key component of what makes the Town of North Hempstead such a special place to live,” Supervisor Bosworth said. “I thank Town Historian Howard Kroplick who helped identify the ideal location of Gerry Park for the statue, and played a central role in the restoration process and Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton for providing us the opportunity to put the finishing touches on the Mackay Horse and ensure that it is a permanent fixture in Roslyn for generations to come.”

Council Member Kaplan, who represents the area where the Mackay Horse stands, said, “In just two short years, the Mackay Horse has already become a distinct part of the fabric and culture of our Town. I look forward to the newest additions provided by this grant that are poised to make Gerry Pond Park a true destination for members of our community. I thank the Roslyn Historical Society and Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton for their help in making this a reality.”

The “horse-tamer” statue underwent a meticulous three-year restoration leading up to its installation in Gerry Pond Park in 2013, and was returned to its original grandeur. While maintaining the physical integrity of the original statue, the restoration included a newly carved groomsmen’s head, creation of missing pieces and stabilization of the entire statue. A ribbon-cutting ceremony ensued in October that year featuring community members, elected officials, and members of the Mackay family.

For more information on this project please call 311 or 516-869-6311.

     

The grand opening of the Mackay Horse Statue back in 2013.


  

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