Landmark: The Name Says It All

The architecture that makes up Port Washington's Main Street is filled with history. This setting makes the repurposed Landmark on Main Street, a former school and now a national, state and local historical landmark, fit in nicely.

Built in 1908, thousands of Port Washington students were educated in what was then known as the Main Street School until it closed in 1985.  It got a second life on Nov. 5, 1995, when it opened its doors as a community center. With 59 units of affordable housing for seniors and the developmentally disabled on the upper floors, Landmark is also home to the Port Washington Youth Council's Teen Center, Parent Resource Center, Children's Center, the 425-seat Jeanne Rimsky Theater and the Doctors' Gymnasium.  

Its mission statement speaks of strengthening the spirit of community by presenting and promoting opportunities for cultural, educational, recreational, social and civic activities for the benefit of the people of Port Washington and neighboring communities.

This is evidenced by the wide range of programs held. The old-school auditorium now plays host to such performers as Joan Osborne, Duncan Sheik and Suzanne Vega.

"The smaller venue provides singers with a more intimate connection to their fans," said Sharon Maier-Kennelly, Landmark's executive director. "Anywhere you sit, you have a great view."

The theater also presents plays for children such as Hudson Vagabond Puppets' Show Queen. Recent discussions have included former Mets pitcher and current broadcaster Ron Darling, as well as NY Congressman Gary Ackerman (D-5th District). On Jan. 28, "Civil Rights in the Obama Era" will feature panelists Fred Brewington, a civil rights Attorney, and Prof. Linda Longmire, Ph.D., a Hofstra University faculty member.

The Teen Center at the Landmark provides the youth of Port Washington a place to go and hang out. "When you walk around town, there is nothing for these kids to do, no arcades, no McDonalds, there's just no place to go to just hang out and be kids," Activities Director Michael Donnelly said. "And the kids keep coming back and really make this place their own."

"We have a lot of activities where the kids learn by playing," Children's Center Executive Director Donna Preminger said while wrapping holiday gifts to give to some of the needy children at the center. "The people who work here really care about these kids, so we got together, pitched in and bought some gifts for the kids that need them."

The Children's Center houses a not-for-profit childcare center for children ages 18 months to sixth grade.

With so many institutions housed in the old school, the Landmark is one of Port Washington's main hubs. But they can't, and don't, do it alone.

The not-for-profit organization provides innovative ways for community members to support the Landmark. For $40, supporters receive discounted tickets to shows at the theater. For $500 to $2,500, supporters can have an inscribed plaque placed on one of the theater seats. Also, a brick with an engraved custom message can be permanently set in the path surrounding Landmark's building and gardens.  

Landmark rents out its facilities to bring in funds, and groups like the Community Chest of Port Washington and the United Way also offer support. 

"The neighborhood really supports us," Preminger said. "The Landmark really is the center of town."