The Old Mill

Written By Dino DiPietro

Here’s a detailed history of the old paper mill in Islip, NY:

🏭 The Old Mill / Paper Mill (circa 1820–1909)

  • Establishment and Ownership
    Around 1820, Ebenezer Hawkins built a paper mill in what is now the hamlet of Islip, Suffolk County. This industrial site became a focal point of early 19th‑century local commerce

  • Location & Historical Marker
    A commemorative marker stands today at 211 East Main Street (Montauk Highway, east of Degnon Boulevard), noting that this was the mill’s location. The marker was erected in 2013 by students of the Islip EXCEL Program

  • Demise and Transformation
    In 1909, the mill was demolished when the property was sold to W. H. Moffitt. The site later was repurposed and now hosts Islip Middle School, marking a transition from industry to community use

🏙 Broader Context in Islip’s History

  • Industrial Roots
    During the 19th century, Islip’s economy included industries like farming, fishing, shipping, and small-scale manufacturing. The paper mill was part of this broader economic development

  • Legacy and Memory
    Though demolished over a century ago, the paper mill remains a significant part of Islip’s heritage, remembered through the historical marker and local preservation efforts

📌 Summary Table

Built c. 1820 by Ebenezer Hawkins

Location 211 East Main St., Islip (~ Main Street/Montauk Hwy & Degnon Blvd)

Demolished 1909, after sale to W. H. Moffitt

Current site use Islip Middle School

Commemoration 2013 historical marker installed by Islip EXCEL students

Dino DiPietro