Begin your historic tour of Port Jefferson, a fabulous old ship building town, at the Mather House, only one of a number of historic properties managed by the Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson, Inc. While I am a 1959 graduate of Port Jeff High School, and have spent many, many years 'down port,' I have only just discovered the wealth of neat and cool places to visit and learn. Some high school friends, involved with the Society, invited me to take a look at the variety of buildings, programs and events offered. I have taken advantage of the wonderful "Antique Auction" every October for a number of years and proudly display some of my great acquisitions to any captive audience. I only recently visited the Spinney Clock Museum and was delighted with the number and the charm of these old clocks. I have heard there will be a 'Clocktail Party' sometime soon - just one of many reasons to return to this intriguing collection. One clock from the Spinney collection has migrated closer to the harbor - a magnificent Railroad Station Clock donated to the Village by Tex Spinney. It can be seen during a walking tour of Greater Port Jefferson. Pick up a Historic Walking Tour Guide at the Mather House and begin your tour of 'Marsh to Main Street.' There are 28 points of interest in the guide, but along the way are unique shops, antique stores, and restaurants galore. While at the harbor, you are sure to witness the arrival or departure of one of the ferries that ply the waters between Port Jeff and Bridgeport. While touring the Mather House, be sure to check out the outbuildings: tool shed, country store, barn and sail loft, Spinney Clock Museum, and the Museum Shop and Dedio House (featuring a collection of toys, spinning wheels and quilts on display). There's even a real 'outhouse.' But no need to stop there! Enjoy the lovely old-fashioned perennial gardens on the grounds and don't hesitate to chat with the Museum volunteers. That's why they are there, to share the history of the people who lived in Port from the 1600's through today. I was fascinated by the diorama of Port Jeff harbor, c 1900, and also by the stone foundation of the building. I know I will have to return a number of times to fully comprehend the extent of the information, artifacts and various programs offered by the Society. You can check out their website at www.PortJeffHistorical.org to find out hours of operation, special events, directions and more interesting info about the Society. Hope to see you at the Clocktail Party!
