New Book Details Life of Roxey the Long Island Rail Road Dog

The Historical Society of the Merricks welcomed author Heather Worthington as she discussed her journey in researching Roxey, the Long Island Rail Road Dog, at the Merrick Library Wednesday evening.

Lawrence Garfinkel, president of the historical society, introduced Worthington, author of the recently published book, Miles of Smiles: The Story of Roxey, the Long Island Rail Road Dog.

"It's going to be a wonderful evening because it was a wonderful journey," Garfinkel said. "Roxey is one of Merricks' notables."

Heather Worthington, who grew up in Huntington, but now lives on the North Fork of Long Island, said she was always interested in history. Upon discovering Roxey's grave in Merrick and researching this beloved dog that was around during the very early 1900s, she knew she wanted to write about him.

After reworking many drafts of the book that includes trains, a dog, kids and even Teddy Roosevelt, she finally managed to snag a publisher willing to publish a book that is for children, but will resonate with adults, especially those from Merrick.

According to Worthington, it was the railroad community and people of Merrick who were the ones who knew so much about Roxey.

At the time of Roxey's escapades, stories appeared in newspapers and magazines. In 1905, the Port Jefferson Echo reported that "Roxey traveled with President Roosevelt to Oyster Bay."

One of those who came to hear the author was Helen Dickinson, a charter member of the historical society.

"I pass the tombstone often and have always been interested in the story," she said. "I'm here to pay respect to Roxey." 

The memorial is at the Merrick train station parking field, east of Merrick Avenue.

Another Merrick resident, Shannon Mills, attended because she is a dog lover.

"I have a golden retriever," she said. "And I always heard this story about Roxey and thought it was such a sweet story."

After the author gave a talk, which included a power point presentation, she signed sold copies of Miles of Smiles. Worthington said that she is planning to do more events and some will include the illustrator of the book, Bill Farnsworth. Readers may visit Worthington's website to see where she will be appearing next.