Introduction to Bethpage

The Indians were originally drawn to the area of Bethpage because it was distinct from the rest of the Hempstead plains as it had a stream which supplied the Indians with an abundant supply of fish. Thomas Powell purchased the land from the Marsapeque Indians. The area received its name as a combination of biblical influence and Powell’s own idiosyncrasies. Neighboring hamlets had already received the names of Jericho and Jerusalem (which later became Wantagh), so Powell sought the assistance of the bible in naming his own purchase: “ . . . as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him, and when they drew night unto Jerusalem and were come to Bethphage . . . then sent Jesus two disciples.” Because of Powell’s dislike of words with many h’s, “Bethpage” became the decided name.

Bethpage later became the site of aviation engineering, being home to Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corp., and Long Island’s largest employer. Its earlier claim to fame was the Beau Sejour hotel, which attracted such famed guests as filmmaker D.W. Griffith, president Harry Truman, and actor Charlie Chaplin.

For more information, contact the Farmingdale-Bethpage Historical Society:
PO Box 500
Farmingdale, NY 11735

For a list of community phone numbers,

click here.

If you would like to add or edit a listing on the Community Contact List please call my office at (516) 739-1700.

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