North Shore historical exhibit opens in Oyster Bay

The Oyster Bay Historical Society will host an exhibition beginning Saturday that celebrates the North Shore’s “gilded age” through the life of a noted early 20th century filmmaker.

“The Story of Commodore Blackton” will feature artistic works and even a racing boat once owned by James Stuart Blackton, a Silent-era film producer known for his early animation techniques.

Blackton founded Vitagraph Studios in Brooklyn, owned an 80-acre estate in Cove Neck and docked a lavish houseboat, complete with a grand ballroom, on Cold Spring Harbor.

At a reception kicking off the exhibition, the historical society will display one of Blackton’s oil paintings, vintage movie posters, an early film projector and his vintage 15-foot Mahogany Runabout boat, “Alli Girl.” Martinis and hors d’oeuvres will be served.

For more information, contact 516-922-5032 or visit the Oyster Bay Historical Society's website.

The reception will be held Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the society’s Koenig Center, 20 Summit St., Oyster Bay.