In 1910, William K. Vanderbilt II purchased 43 acres of waterfront land in Centerport and called it his Eagle’s Nest estate. In 1922, Mr. Vanderbilt built a marine museum, the first stage of his larger museum complex. Mr. Vanderbilt traveled the world to collect thousands of specimens, including fish, insects, invertebrates, birds and wild animals, along with cultural artifacts from Africa and the Pacific. The museum has the largest collection of privately assembled marine specimens from the pre atomic era.
“My family and I have spent time at the Vanderbilt Museum and we enjoyed our visit. It is a beautiful estate, and offers so much history, in addition to being a wonderful educational facility. We are lucky to have this gem in our backyard,” said Legislator Esteban.
“As a parent and former teacher, I appreciate everything that the Vanderbilt Museum has to offer. In addition to providing educational opportunities in the sciences and in history, it is also just a fun place to spend the day. We are so lucky to have this resource here in Suffolk County and I encourage everyone to stop by for a visit.” – Legislator Stephanie Bontempi, 18th L.D.
“Elizabeth Wayland-Morgan, Executive Director of the Vanderbilt, said “we’re pleased that the Hall of Fishes, has been recognized on its centennial. The hundreds of beautiful specimens Vanderbilt brought back from his global explorations have delighted several generations of museum visitors and continue to be an integral part of our education programming.
The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum is located in Centerport, New York. To visit their website to learn all that is offered, please go to www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Shown (l to r) James Kelly, Board of Trustee President; Dave Bush, Planetarium Director; Legislator Esteban, Elizabeth Wayland-Morgan, Executive Director; Legislator Bontempi, Paul Rubery, Director of Curatorial Affairs and Sue Madlinger, Director of Development