Freeport to dedicate two historical markers

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The Freeport Landmarks Preservation Commission is dedicating two historical makers on Aug. 26 at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. at two different locations. The historical roadside markers come from a grant by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. The dedication of the markers plays an important role in local historic preservation, while educating the public and promoting historical tourism.

The first marker will be dedicated at 10 a.m. off the north end of Woodcleft Avenue and Front Street. The dedication will commemorate the Woodcleft Inn, once located in what is now Randall Park.  John J. Randall and William G. Miller built the Woodcleft Inn at the turn of the 20th century when Freeport was considered a summer destination.  Eventually the Inn sold to St. Vincent de Paul, as a retreat for poor children from New York City.  

The second marker was the home of Col. James Dean who was president/mayor of Freeport from 1902 to 1905.  Dean served in the Civil War and amassed one of the largest collections of antique weapons.  This property later became the Freeport Hospital.  The dedication will take place at 11 a.m. at southeast corner of South Ocean Avenue and Archer Street.