Hempstead Town Hall Added To Registry Of Historic Places

Hempstead Town Hall was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, giving something for resident's of America's largest township even more to be proud of.

"I am thrilled to announce Hempstead Town Hall has officially been added to the National Register of Historic Places," said Town of Hempstead Supervisor Laura Gillen. "Walking through this building is a powerful reminder of the rich history upon which our town was founded, along with all we still aim to achieve.”

The State Review Board voted unanimously in March to place Town Hall, including Hempstead's 1918 Georgian Revival Old Town Hall, to the State Register of Historic Places and unanimously nominated it for the National Registers of Historic Places.

This year also marks the 100th anniversary of officials — including then New York State Governor Charles Whitman — laying the cornerstone for “Old Town Hall.”

“Not only does this recognition signify the importance of the building, but it also makes the town eligible for federal grant funding to restore and refurbish many of the structure's iconic fixtures,” Gillen said. “This is certainly something I plan to pursue for posterity.”

To qualify for the State and National Register of Historic Places, buildings are required to be at least 50 years old and associated with significant events, activities or developments of the past. Town Hall, along with the adjoining Nathan L.H. Bennett Pavilion and outdoor plaza, were constructed in 1968 and are considered part of “Old Town Hall,” since they are connected.

Photo: Town of Hempstead