Lake Ronkonkoma, located in the center of Long Island, became
a summer destination for wealthy New Yorkers with the arrival of
the railroad in 1843. Luxurious hotels were built around the lakeshore
during the 1890s to attract visitors. People would utilize the sparkling
waters of the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. At night, hotel
guests could dance, gamble in the casino, and enjoy sumptuous meals.
By the 1920s, as more people could afford automobiles, beach pavilions
began decorating the shoreline of Lake Ronkonkoma. Thousands of
people were flocking...