The City Island Historical Society offered a unique view on Orchard Beach's Pavilion. Historian Deb Wye spoke to a group of approximately 60 people, who were there to learn about that majestic Landmark Pavilion.
This vast, spare arcade overlooking Long Island Sound in the Bronx also has a decaying side as the years and that salt air has affected this bathing complex, which opened back in July 25, 1936.
Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia and Commissioner Robert Moses, a fierce taskmaster left their mark on New York City in the 1930s including Orchard Beach, a half mile oasis of white sand in a great curve facing Long Island Sound, nearby City Island.
The group was crammed inside a room of the City Island museum which was warm, stuffy and humid. The obvious lack or air conditioning and those closed windows made the experience a bit uncomfortable for some, but most City Islanders were impressed with the entire presentation. Among those was Violet Smith, who said "Deb is wonderful I love to listen to her speak"
Richard De Pierrro, the original owner of the Black Whale spoke to City Island Images about the deteriorating shape of the promenade and pavilion structure. He says the classic landmark building is in serious need of repair and claims that the city does not do enough to keep up with necessary maintenance.