Listen to Oral History sound clips

Click on the links below to hear selections from the library’s sound archives. Selections from three of our oral history projects include: the great estates, maritime traditions, and aviation history. Preservation-quality digital products are catalogued and archived in the Port Washington Public Library’s Local History Center.

MARITIME ORAL HISTORY PROJECT

Local baymen and yachtsmen recalling their experiences living and working on the waters surrounding the Port Washington peninsula. Produced by Elly Shodell, Port Washington Public Library, and Charles Potter, Radio Arts, Inc. 1990. 6 mins. 10 seconds

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Sloop on Long Island Sound, 1890s.
Hewlett Collection.

WORKERS ON THE GREAT ESTATES PROJECT

Selection of household and outdoor staff on several Long Island mansions talking about their jobs, families and experiences during the Gold Coast era of the 1920s.  Produced by Elly Shodell, Port Washington Public Library,  and Charles Potter, Radio Arts, Inc.  1988. 12 mins. 22 secs

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Planting Fields gardens, Coe Estate, 1920s.
Courtesy Planting Fields Foundation.

PORT WASHINGTON’S AVIATION PAST

Josephine Rachiele, retired World War II riveter, recalling her 40-plus years working at Fairchild Republic Aircraft Corporation. Interviewed by Elly Shodell.  1994.  3 mins. 15 secs.

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Flying boat prepares for take-off from
Manhasset Bay, 1930s.
Port Washington Library Collection.