top of page

Preserving History: John Pritts and the Mamaroneck Historical Society

Mamaroneck Observer

by Marina Kiriakou -

 

John Pritts embodies a unique blend of personal history and community commitment as the president of the Mamaroneck Historical Society and the Village historian.  Growing up in Mamaroneck, John was deeply influenced by the stories shared by his mother, Gloria Poccia Pritts, who served as the Village historian for nearly three decades.  Her passion for local history ignited a similar interest in John, leading him to take on the mantle of preserving her archives and showcasing the rich historical tapestry of his hometown.

 

A Legacy of Passion for Local History

John's connection to Mamaroneck runs deep. His mother, a first-generation Italian-American, was born on Colonial Avenue in Mamaroneck and lived in the area since 1924.  Gloria's involvement in the community extended beyond her role as Village Historian. She was a beloved figure who knew many residents personally, thanks to her extensive work in the local school system.  Her dedication and resourcefulness were evident when she pursued her long-held dream of attending college, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in History at the age of 79.

 

While John does not have formal training in history—holding a degree in English and a background in the automotive industry—his upbringing in a household steeped in local lore positioned him perfectly for his current role.  "If you were driving around town with her, she would point out where historical events took place and share stories about the people who lived there," John recalls, illustrating how his mother’s enthusiasm shaped his understanding of Mamaroneck’s history.

 

Uncovering Hidden Histories

One of John’s significant contributions as the Village Historian has been uncovering the often-overlooked narratives of slavery in Mamaroneck and Larchmont.  "Growing up, I understood that slavery was viewed as a Southern issue, not something that affected our community," he explains.  Ongoing research by Judy Silberstein, Ned Benton, his graduate students, and Edyth Ann Quinn (a professor and author specializing in Black communities in Westchester), along with the efforts of REALM (Recognizing Enslaved Africans in Larchmont and Mamaroneck), has documented that many founding families of Mamaroneck were slaveholders. This revelation spurred efforts to acknowledge and memorialize this dark aspect of local history.

 

"We have records for over 200 enslaved individuals who lived here,” says John. “We are setting up the REALM Memorial at the Town Center this fall.”   This initiative represents a critical step toward recognizing the contributions and suffering of enslaved people in the area.

 

A True Mamaroneck Story

Another recent and significant undertaking led by the Mamaroneck Historical Society was the mural preservation project at Mamaroneck High School.  This ambitious effort focused on removing and preserving seven James Fenimore Cooper-related murals at risk of damage.  Funded through generous donations, John and former co-president of the Mamaroneck Historical Society, Gail Boyle, spearheaded the project.

 

In 1935, the 9th grade class at Mamaroneck High School commissioned the murals to honor local writer James Fenimore Cooper.  Influenced by their readings of “The Leatherstocking Tales,” the students chose themes to depict, raised funds, and hired artists from the Yale School of Fine Arts to paint them for the school cafeteria.  Completed in 1941, the murals connect the community to its rich literary heritage, as Cooper lived in Mamaroneck and began his writing career here.

 

The first of the renovated murals, “Last of the Mohicans,” will find its new home at the Mamaroneck Cinema, a fitting location given its status as a historical building in the village.  The Historical Society will unveil the mural early this spring, promising to be a noteworthy event for the community.  This project not only preserves a piece of local art history but also highlights the society's commitment to maintaining the cultural heritage of Mamaroneck.

 

Initiatives of the Mamaroneck Historical Society

Under John’s leadership, the Mamaroneck Historical Society has embarked on various projects to preserve and celebrate local history.  One of the most cherished projects is the historic schoolhouse, which was saved and relocated through the efforts of his mother, Gloria.  In 1993, when the schoolhouse was at risk of demolition, Gloria advocated for its preservation, successfully securing funding and organizing its move to a new location in Harbor Island Park.

 

On the last Sunday of each month, John opens the schoolhouse to the public, welcoming visitors who are curious to learn about Mamaroneck’s past. His dedication is evident: "I’ve been there on Christmas day and Easter Sunday.  People come in and say they always wondered what was inside," he notes with pride.

 

Engaging the Community

Community engagement is a cornerstone of John’s philosophy as a historian.  He emphasizes the importance of making history accessible and relevant to residents.  The Mamaroneck Historical Society’s website features a wealth of information about notable local figures and events, sparking interest among both residents and visitors.

 

One memorable instance of community engagement occurred during a recent presidential election. Mike Meaney, a researcher from the Society, compiled data on voting patterns for presidential elections dating back to 1840.  While waiting in line to vote a few years ago, John shared this information with his neighbors, surprising them with the revelation that President Lincoln did not win the popular vote in Mamaroneck.  "Everyone around me was shocked," he recalls.  Such moments highlight how history can foster connections and discussions within the community.

 

Notable Historical Insights

The rich tapestry of Mamaroneck's history includes many fascinating stories and figures.  John shares anecdotes about notable residents like Lou Gehrig and Johnny Carson, as well as local legends such as Ethel Barrymore and the Gish sisters.  The Society’s efforts to document and celebrate these individuals have not only preserved their legacies but also inspired pride among current residents.

 

Moreover, John’s passion for history is infectious; he shares his enthusiasm with visitors at the schoolhouse, discussing everything from local architecture to the town’s development over the years.  His extensive knowledge, cultivated through years of sorting through his mother’s archives, allows him to engage visitors in meaningful conversations about Mamaroneck’s heritage.

 

Celebrating Our History

In a world where history can often be overlooked, John serves as a beacon for residents, inviting us to explore our shared past and engage with the stories that define our community.  His work is a reminder that history is not just about the past; it is a living narrative that shapes who we are today.

 

To learn more about Mamaroneck's rich history or to learn how to get involved with the Mamaroneck Historical Society, visit their website at http://mamaroneckhistoricalsociety.org or follow them on Facebook.


The 1816 Schoolhouse at Harbor Island Park
The 1816 Schoolhouse at Harbor Island Park

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.

Bring Village news straight to your inbox.

Sign up for our newsletter.

We will never share your information with any individuals or organizations.
Join us on our facebook group!
  • Facebook

© 2023 by The Mamaroneck Observer Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The Mamaroneck Observer is a publication of The Mamaroneck Observer Inc. a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization.

bottom of page