Big Duck Turns 85

Certain iconic structures instantly conjure up memories for generations of East End residents, and the Big Duck leads the pack.

The world famous Big Duck is celebrating a very big birthday this year, turning 85, according to Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, who took time out this week to wish the familiar landmark a "Happy Birthday" on social media.

The Big Duck was constructed in 1931, he said, First located on Main Street in Riverhead, the Duck has been moved three times before making its final nest on Big Duck Ranch in Flanders in 2007, Bellone said.

According to Bellone, the 20-foot tall, 30-foot long cement and wood structure was modeled after a Peking duck in order to call attention to the poultry store housed inside.

The Duck’s eyes, he said, are constructed from Model T Ford taillights that glow red at night and the belly of the Duck still functions as a gift shop, a tourism center for the East End, Bellone said.

The Big Duck, a Nationally Registered Historic Place, is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and Sundays, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

Photo courtesy of Suffok County Executive Steve Bellone's office.