Century-Old Nassau Home Likely To Be Named Historic Place

The George Sumner Kellogg House has stood in Baldwin for more than a century. And now, with protection from the state, it's likely to stand even longer.

The home at 960 Merrick Road, which was built between 1899 and 1900, was among five Long Island properties that Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced would be added to the state's registry of historic places. In total, 22 properties across the state were recommended to be added to the registry.

"The rich history of New York helped shape the history of this nation and the designation of these 22 additional sites to will help ensure that these places and their histories are preserved for New Yorkers and visitors alike for generations to come," Cuomo said.

State and National Registers listing can assist property owners in revitalizing buildings, making them eligible for various public preservation programs and services, such as matching state grants and state and federal historic rehabilitation tax credits.

The Baldwin Historical Society has been trying for years to save the Kellogg House. For a long time, it was slated to be torn down to be the site of the new First Precinct House. However, that fate was averted.

The Kellogg House was built for George Sumner Kellogg, a Civil War veteran. Its grand style is the last example of the stately Queen Anne-style homes that used to be more common in Baldwin.

Also named to the register from Long Island was:

• The Charles and Anna Bates House in Greenport
• The house at 390 Ocean Avenue in Massapequa
• The Second and Ostrander Historic District in Riverhead
• The Swan River Schoolhouse in East Patchogue

Once the recommendations are approved by the state historic preservation officer, the properties are listed on the New York State Register of Historic Places and then nominated to the National Register of Historic Places, where they are reviewed and, once approved, entered on the National Register.

Photo: New York State Board For Historic Preservation