Veterans and the Memorial Library
On May 10, 1945, at a public meeting, Mayor of Lindenhurst Village, John C. Blankenhorn, suggested that the community and pay tribute to its World War II military veterans by establishing a Memorial Library.
Six hundred and fifty-three men and women from the Lindenhurst School District and its neighboring unincorporated areas at this time had served in the armed forces, eighteen of which had lost their lives. As a result, Mayor Blankenhorn’s proposal for a Memorial Library was unanimously approved, and plans began to create the Lindenhurst Memorial Library .
Windows on Wellwood
As part of the fundraising effort for the “Windows on Wellwood” project, 232 blue and 17 engraved gold stars were purchased to honor living or deceased veterans. The gold stars, dedicated to Lindenhurst residents killed in action, are mounted directly on the windows. A special oak cabinet was built to house the two hundred thirty blue stars. The cabinet is engraved with the motto, “For Those Who Served”.
The Windows on Wellwood are currently being cleaned and repaired while building construction continues. They will be reinstalled along the front of the building so they will still be visible as visitors drive South on Wellwood Avenue, towards the Library.
Lindenhurst Memorial Library Veterans History Project
The Lindenhurst Memorial Library is interested in recording the stories and memories of any and all local Veterans of the U.S. Military Services from any era and any conflict. Eligible recordings will be forwarded to the U.S. Library of Congress for their Veterans History Project collection as well as featured on the Lindenhurst Memorial Library YouTube page. Recordings may be video or audio only, depending on the preference of the Veteran and may be recorded in a location convenient to the Veteran, including at the Library, the Veteran’s home or elsewhere. If you or a loved one are interested in being interviewed, please contact Peter at localhistory@lindenhurstlibrary.org (631) 957-7755, ext. 135.
View all previous recordings of Lindenhurst Veterans here.
Resources for Veteran’s
The Lindenhurst Memorial Library remains committed to supporting local veterans. Our Veteran’s Resource page contains links to many Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, and other local agencies dedicated to providing resources to Veterans and their families. You can also check our newsletter for programs and services offered throughout the year.