Town Officials Move to Preserve Lindbergh Take-Off Site

Twenty-year old Hofstra student Adam Sackowitz is taking steps alongside Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray and Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby to preserve the take-off site of Charles Lindbergh's historic 1927 trans-Atlantic flight.

The trio announced their plan to safeguard the Garden City property site, which was set to go up for auction Aug. 28, with worries that it could be threatened by development under change of ownership. Chairman of the town's Landmark Preservation Commision Angelo Corva, Assemblyman Ed Ra and Cradle of Aviation Museum Executive Director Andrew Parton joined the town officials at a press conference regarding the state of the property.

"This site is one of the most important locations in aviation history, as well as the history of our nation,” said Murray. “We must take steps to preserve the place where the Spirit of St. Louis began its ascent on its journey to France in 1927."

In hopes of keeping the site protected from future development, Murray and Goosby pledged to recommend the site for landmark status by the Town of Hempstead which requires a review of the property by the Landmarks Preservation Commision. After the review, the site could then be recommended to the Town Board for status consideration. Murray and Goosby, who both sit on the board, voiced confidence in the board's decision on the proposal.

 “This site deserves landmark status,” said Goosby. “I am committed to working with Kate Murray and the entire Town Board to see that Lindbergh’s take-off location receives designation as a landmark.”

If granted landmark status, the site would benefit from protection against alteration, development or other forms of construction and property owners would be required to seek the approval of the town's Landmarks Commision before making any alterations to the monument and its surrounding land. Officials stated that the designation would not interfere with prospective development of the area that now houses the Source Mall.

 “Granting the site where Charles Lindbergh began his historic trans-Atlantic flight landmark status will protect the site and preserve it for generations to come,” said Murray. “At the same time, we will take steps to ensure that future commercial development at the Source Mall site is not adversely impacted.”

Murray and Goosby showcased a sample of a Hempstead Town historical marker that would be placed at the landmark if approved by the town. A replica of the marker was given to Sackowitz to recognize his efforts in protecting the monument.

 “Protecting our region’s history is part of preserving our identity,” Murray concluded. “I am grateful that Councilwoman Goosby and I have an opportunity to work with Adam Sackowitz to safeguard part of the Lindbergh legacy.”