Nestled on the South Shore of Long Island in the Town of Islip, Suffolk County, West Sayville, NY, is a charming hamlet and census-designated place (CDP) with a population of 4,872 as of the 2020 census. Known for its rich maritime history, historic landmarks, and scenic location along the Great South Bay, West Sayville offers a serene yet vibrant community atmosphere. At Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys, located in nearby Ronkonkoma, NY, we are proud to serve the residents of West Sayville, providing compassionate and expert legal representation to those navigating personal injury challenges. Whether you’re drawn to West Sayville’s nautical heritage, historic sites, or recreational opportunities, this hamlet is a welcoming place to call home.
West Sayville’s history is deeply tied to its coastal location and early American roots. Founded along Native American trade routes, the hamlet was part of the royal land grant given to William Nicoll, who established Islip Town in 1697. The Greene House at 93 Montauk Highway, a historic landmark, hosted George Washington in 1790 during his tour of Long Island, where he rested and refreshed his horses. This storied home reflects West Sayville’s early significance as a stopover for notable figures.
In the early 20th century, West Sayville gained prominence with the 1912 construction of the German Telefunken wireless transmitter on Cherry Avenue, used to communicate with Germany. In 1915, the station allegedly relayed a message to “get Lucy,” referring to the RMS Lusitania, which sank on May 7, 1915. This raised concerns for the U.S. government, and in 1917, the station transmitted the Zimmermann Telegram, prompting President Woodrow Wilson to send Marines to seize it—the first hostile U.S. action against Germany in World War I. Today, the site is part of the Sayville National Wildlife Refuge, preserving its historical significance.
The hamlet’s maritime heritage is further celebrated at the Long Island Maritime Museum at 86 West Avenue, which showcases the region’s nautical history. West Sayville also made headlines in 1912 when Edith Corse Evans, a summer resident and heir to a tanning and real estate fortune, heroically gave up her seat on the Titanic’s last lifeboat to save a mother of six, sacrificing her own life. Her legacy underscores the community’s spirit of selflessness.
Spanning 2.10 square miles, with 2.10 square miles of land and just 0.0077 square miles of water, West Sayville has a population density of 2,386.2 inhabitants per square mile, as reported in the 2010 census. The CDP is home to 1,771 households and 1,314 families, with 606 families having children under 18. Of the 2,124 housing units, 83.9% are owner-occupied, and 16.1% are renter-occupied. The population is balanced, with 48.0% male and 52.0% female, and includes 88.3% White, 6.4% African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 4.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up 4.7% of the population.
Economically, West Sayville is stable, with a median household income of $95,938 and a high educational attainment rate, with 93.3% of residents holding a high school diploma. The age distribution includes 14.7% under 18, 4.3% under 5, and 24.1% aged 65 or older, reflecting a diverse and multigenerational community.
West Sayville’s educational landscape is served by the Sayville School District, which includes Sayville High School at 20 Brook Street and Cherry Avenue Elementary School at 155 Cherry Avenue. Some residents attend the Connetquot School District, while the West Sayville Christian School at 37 Rollstone Avenue offers private education for kindergarten through eighth grade. The former St. John’s University Oakdale campus, partially in West Sayville, was acquired in 1999 and later purchased by Amity University in 2016. It is set to become the Harrow International School New York, opening in September 2025, enhancing the area’s educational offerings.
Recreation abounds in West Sayville, with the Long Island Maritime Museum preserving the region’s seafaring legacy. Suffolk County parks, including Charles R. Dominy County Park, Green’s Creek County Park/Marina, and Cherry Avenue County Dog Park, offer outdoor activities, while the Mansion at West Sayville (Meadowedge), a 1910 gift from Commodore Frederick Bourne, serves as a private catering facility. Town of Islip parks, such as Division Avenue Park/Playground and the Baymen Soccer Complex, provide additional recreational spaces.
At Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys, we are honored to serve West Sayville’s residents from our Ronkonkoma office, just minutes away. Whether you’ve been injured in a boating accident on the Great South Bay, a car crash on Montauk Highway, or a slip-and-fall at a local business, our experienced team is dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve. We understand the impact of personal injuries and are committed to providing compassionate, expert legal guidance to support your recovery.
As a trusted part of the Suffolk County community, Sullivan Brill takes pride in assisting West Sayville residents with their legal needs. From navigating complex insurance claims to representing you in court, we are your advocates in protecting your rights. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact our Ronkonkoma office today to learn how we can support you.
West Sayville’s blend of maritime history, scenic beauty, and community spirit makes it a standout destination in Suffolk County. From the historic Greene House to the Long Island Maritime Museum, the hamlet offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Its strong schools, diverse population, and recreational offerings enhance its appeal as a place to live, work, and thrive.
For residents facing personal injury challenges, Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys is a steadfast partner, proudly serving West Sayville and its surrounding communities. Discover the enduring charm of West Sayville, NY, and let us help you navigate your path to recovery with confidence.
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