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The Fire Island National Seashore. Est. 1964
Fire Island History, 1960's, 1970's, 1980's, 1990's, 2000 Robert Bonanno Fire Island History, 1960's, 1970's, 1980's, 1990's, 2000 Robert Bonanno

The Fire Island National Seashore. Est. 1964

Fire Island National Seashore was established by Congress on September 11, 1964, following a long history of preservation efforts, most with grass-roots support. Without the plan by master builder/ developer Robert Moses there would be no NPS. His role was a major turning point in Fire Island history.

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The Monster Cherry Grove Est. 1969
Cherry Grove, 1960's, 1970's, 1980's, 1990's, 2000 Robert Bonanno Cherry Grove, 1960's, 1970's, 1980's, 1990's, 2000 Robert Bonanno

The Monster Cherry Grove Est. 1969

Before it became the institution it is known as today, The Monster (Greenwich Village, NYC) started out as a restaurant in Cherry Grove on Fire Island. The Monster was named after a carved wooden sea serpent from the Coney Island carousel. Joe Scialo opened the restaurant and bar in 1969, where it swiftly evolved into the hottest gay nightspot of the time. From there, the concept expanded to Key West where it became immensely popular with snowbirds who would flock to vacation there during winter seasons. At the height of its popularity, The Monster was even considered Studio 54’s rival.

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Talisman Fire Island Est.1960-65
1960's Robert Bonanno 1960's Robert Bonanno

Talisman Fire Island Est.1960-65

East of the Fire Island Pines was a community known as “Talisman.” This area housed the most exclusive and chic of the Fire Island resorts and was known for a social scene that had a resounding impact on culture at the time.

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