A DAR Ghostly Tea at Longwood Estate

The Daughters of the American Revolution Col. Josiah Smith Chapter gathered on October 25th at the Longwood Estate for a Country Tea. Mr. Dale prepared cranberry scones that were served with clotted cream, tea sandwiches, and many delicious desserts prepared by Regent Joan Nathan and friend Paual Bianca. David Hollowell shared memories of his childhood summer days when he stayed with his grandparents. His Grandfather William J. Hollowell was once the caretaker. David's brother recalls sitting on the porch of the caretaker house (the red house pictured) and seeing an image of what he thought was a ghost. Of course it scared him! The children were never allowed in the house- the owner was afraid they would break something! The Director of the estate, Diane Schwindt, shared stories of images of a man in a suit and another image of someone in blue (a lady?). No one who shares ghostly stories mentions fear- and everyone remembers only happiness in the house.

Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, Longwood Estate history reveals that it was built in the Revolutionary War when Long Island was under British Occupation. William Smith desired to put his farm animals in a safe place where the British would not ravage his stock. It must have worked as the Longwood Estate remained an active farm in the 1900's. David Hollowell does recall many animals on the land, including a bull! The pond on the estate was a great watering hole that was also full of frogs!

Tours of the Longwood Estate are available during the week. Just call 631-924-1820 to arrange one! If you are interested in history- DAR may be the right group for you! Historic Preservation was behind the beginning of DAR in 1890. Our Motto is God, Home, and Country! Interested? We can look and see if you have a Revolutionary War Patriot! Contact Regent Joan Nathan at darsamuelprice@gmail.com