The Association Of Suffolk County Historical Societies Changes Its Name

The Association of Suffolk County Historical Societies (ASCHS) has expanded its services and territories which calls for a new name: Long Island Historical Societies – a move that was officially confirmed by the New York State Board of Regents.

The organization was founded by Robert David Lion Gardiner in 1969 focusing on Suffolk County historical societies. In 2018, the organization’s Board of Trustees developed and approved a new strategic plan expanding its services and geographic reach. “Robert David Lion Gardiner had a great respect for Long Island’s historic stewards. When he founded ASCHS it was to recognize their efforts,” Kathryn M. Curran, vice president of the Board and the executive director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, relayed. “Today with the name change to Long Island Historical Societies, Robert Gardiner’s original vision has expanded to be more inclusive and focused on the growth and success of these organizations.”

ASCHS’s mission was “to provide a medium for communication among its members to exchange ideas and experiences for the purposes of mutual assistance and to develop cooperation for the solution of common problems.” The organization presents workshops where members can familiarize themselves with new programming and acquire knowledge about the historic aspects of the region.

“Our expanded mission will aim to preserve local history, landmarks and historical buildings by supporting coordinating and unifying the historical societies located throughout Long Island,” said Dr. Georgette Grier-Key, president of the Board of the Long Island Historical Societies and executive director of the Eastville Community Center.

Howard Kroplick, a trustee of the Long Island Historical Societies, town historian of North Hempstead and president of the Roslyn Landmark Society added, “I am very excited about the name change since its better reflects our membership and our goal to serve as a resource hub throughout Long Island, while promoting its history.”

For more information, visit www.aschs.org.