Stony Brook University has been entrusted with a significant collection of documents detailing the grassroots campaign that led to the establishment of the Fire Island National Seashore (FINS). This donation, made by the Barbash family, highlights efforts to halt Robert Moses' plan for a highway on Fire Island in the 1960s. Maurice Barbash and Irving Like were key figures in organizing the Citizen’s Committee for a Fire Island National Seashore, which played a crucial role in this environmental victory.
The collection includes meeting minutes, press releases, and correspondence with prominent figures such as New York State Governor Nelson Rockefeller and Secretary of the Interior Stuart Udall. The donation is timely, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of FINS's creation as part of the National Park Service on September 11, 1964.
Jamie Saragossi, Associate Dean of Content Services at Stony Brook University Libraries, emphasized the importance of preserving these documents: “We are very excited to have the papers of the Citizen’s Committee for a Fire Island National Seashore as a part of Stony Brook University Libraries’ collections. With the upcoming 60th anniversary, preserving and providing access to this collection is of great importance.”
Kristen J. Nyitray, Director of Special Collections and University Archives at Stony Brook University, remarked on their significance: “The papers offer first-hand, historical evidence of the remarkable grassroots efforts that protected the natural environments of both Long Island and Fire Island for future generations.” She added that they highlight "our commitment to collect, preserve, and provide access to diverse histories of Long Island."
Cathy Barbash shared insights into her family's decision to donate these materials: “We are honored that Stony Brook University has agreed to accept the original minutes... The Committee was founded on September 12, 1962... against steep odds." She noted that this documentation sheds light on political maneuvering during mid-century America.
Susan Barbash recalled her childhood memories related to this cause: “The epic battle against Robert Moses’ plan... took place in 1964... Though we had many memories... we had no idea that the victory over Moses was far from inevitable.”
The donated items will be part of Stony Brook University's Special Collections. They will be digitized and made available online. Additionally, digital files from an exhibition curated by Susan and Cathy Barbash will complement this collection.