Senate Resolution No. 1490

BY: Senator MARTINS

COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the Village
of East Williston, New York

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to honor and
commemorate the distinguished histories of the communities which
comprise this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Village of East Williston, New
York, on Sunday, April 5, 2026; and

WHEREAS, While the incorporated village is a century old, its roots
stretch back to the 17th century, when European farmers first settled
the fertile lands of the Hempstead Plains; since, the village has
experienced vast changes and growth, developing into the vibrant
suburban municipality it is today; and

WHEREAS, The area now known as East Williston was formerly called
"The North Side," in reference to its location on the north side of
Hempstead Plains, the town's grazing grounds; the first recorded use of
the name "The North Side" traces back to a deed dated January 19, 1663;
and

WHEREAS, Gradually, the name "Williston" came into use toward the
middle of the 19th century, due to the many families named Willis
residing in the area; that name became "East Williston" in 1879, and the
early village comprised an area of almost four square miles, extending
from Jericho Turnpike to I.U. Willets Road, and from Herricks Road to
Bacon Road; and

WHEREAS, The geographic center of Nassau County, New York, the
Village of East Williston is known for its charm, character, and strong
sense of community, boasting beautiful tree-lined streets, unique
historic homes, and longstanding institutions which have become a staple
of the village and stand as a testament to its citizenry's generational
commitment to living life in their beloved community; and

WHEREAS, By East Williston's incorporation in 1926, the Long Island
Rail Road, the growth of residential neighborhoods, and the
establishment of local businesses had already begun to shape the
community; and

WHEREAS, The Village of East Williston has carefully balanced
progress with preservation in welcoming new families, fostering civic
pride, and expanding parks and public spaces, while protecting its
historic architecture and cherished traditions; and

WHEREAS, The centennial year will feature special presentations,
guided walking tours, and community-wide celebrations, as well as a
newly published book that will bring East Williston's past and present
to life, offering new residents a meaningful introduction to the

village's history while giving longtime neighbors the opportunity to
discover stories and details they may not have known; and

WHEREAS, East Williston's 100th anniversary provides an opportunity
for meaningful reflection, gratitude, and pride, recognizing the people,
places, and events which have defined the history and spirit of this
cherished community over the course of a century; and

WHEREAS, Remaining fruitful over the ebb and flow of decades of
growth and change, the Village of East Williston continues its
commitment to enhancing the quality of life of its citizens, ensuring a
positive business, institutional, and educational climate, while
providing all essential services; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Village of East Williston,
recognizing the significance of the role it continues to play in the
life of the communities and citizens of the State of New York; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Town of East Williston, New York.