Town of Islip Honors Revolutionary War Patriots with Memorial Signs

June 25th, 2025 – The Town of Islip has completed a year-long research project to honor local Revolutionary War patriots by installing commemorative signs at their burial sites throughout the town. The initiative, conducted in partnership with the Sons of the American Revolution, recognizes 16 patriots who risked everything to support the cause of American independence.

Wayne Haddock of the Sons of the American Revolution led the extensive research effort, working alongside Islip Town Historian George Munkenbeck, to identify and verify the burial locations of Islip's Revolutionary War veterans. The project culminated this summer with the installation of memorial signs at nine historic cemeteries and burial grounds where these patriots rest.

"This project reminds us that the fight for American independence wasn't just fought by famous figures—it was supported by ordinary citizens in communities like ours who were willing to risk everything for the cause of freedom," said Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter.

This project was completed through a coordinated effort between town officials at the Parks Department, contractors, and input from the boating community. The Town of Islip remains committed to maintaining and improving its recreational waterfronts and looks forward to continuing efforts that support accessibility, safety, and quality of life for all residents.

The honored patriots include men who signed the Association in Islip on May 13, 1775, and served in various capacities with the Suffolk County Militia, including the First Regiment of Minute Men under Colonel Josiah Smith. Notable among them is Jeremiah Terry, who served as 1st Lieutenant in the Suffolk County Militia's First Regiment Islip Company under Colonel William Floyd.

"These brave men signed associations, served in militia units, and some even became refugees to Connecticut when British forces occupied what is now Islip Town from 1775 until November 1783," said the Town of Islip Historian. "The land was laid bare to support the British garrison during this occupation."

Memorial sites include:
• Weeks-Muncy Cemetery (West Islip)
• Sagtikos Manor Cemetery/Thompson Family Cemetery (West Bay Shore)
• Oakwood Cemetery
• Saint John's Episcopal Churchyard (Oakdale)
• Edwards Family Graveyard (Sayville)
• Union Cemetery (Sayville)
• Wheeler Family Cemetery (Hauppauge)
• George Wheeler Graveyard (Hauppauge)

The research was supported by Kate Leigh-Manuell, last summer's intern, who assisted with date verification and proofreading during her college break. The project represents the first phase of Islip's commemoration of the Revolutionary War's 250th anniversary, marking the early revolutionary activities that began in 1775.

A formal dedication ceremony is planned for Fall 2025 at St. John Episcopal Church in Oakdale to honor all those who participated in the founding of the United States.

The memorial signs were provided by the Sons of the American Revolution, with additional support from the Sayville Historical Society for the Edwards Family Graveyard marker.

For more information about Islip's Revolutionary War history and upcoming 250th anniversary events, contact the Town of Islip Historian's Office at (631)-595-3862.