Mount Sinai Bankruptcy Attorney

The area now known as Mount Sinai was originally called Nonowatuck by the Seatocot Native American family who inhabited the region. The first European settlers were Colonial settlers from Setauket, who acquired a deed from the local Native Americans in 1664.

The origin of the town’s early European name, “Old Mans”, remains uncertain. One popular explanation involves Major John Gotherson, an elderly Englishman who allegedly believed he had purchased land in the New World from Captain John Scott, a prominent figure in Long Island’s early history. When Gotherson’s representatives were turned away, locals humorously referred to the land as “the Old Mans”.

Construction of houses occurred gradually, initially concentrated within a mile of the harbor. Few homes were built south of North Country Road until the late 19th century, as much of the land in that direction was owned by farmers.

While no known 17th-century structures remain, the 18th century is represented by six buildings dating from 1705 to 1790, some incorporating elements from earlier periods. The 19th century saw the most surviving historical structures, divided into two periods: 1800-1840s and 1880-1890s.

In 1840, residents applied for a post office, prompting a change from “Old Mans” to “Mount Vernon”. However, this name was short-lived due to another town named Mount Vernon in New York. “Old Mans” was briefly reinstated before another name change. Mount Sinai, inspired by the biblical mountain, was selected by the first postmaster, Charles Phillips, who, according to local legend, chose the name by randomly pointing a needle into his Bible. Since 1841/1842, Mount Sinai has been the preferred name for the area.