After being removed over a year ago, the construction of a new cupola for the Gregory Museum has been completed.

The distinctive domed top that stood on top of the historic building for over 100 years, was removed in early 1998. The initial diagnosis was to renovate the structure, but years of neglect left the cupola unsavable.

Most hopes of restoring the cupola to the top of the museum were dashed as initial estimates neared $100,000. The Town of Oyster Bay was setting aside $17,000 for the museum to use for the project. Fortunately, the museum got in touch with Nassau County BOCES and discussed the possibility of some of their students working on the cupola. The logic being that the students would gain experience and have a structure on a historical landmark as a reference, and the Gregory Museum would get quality craftsmanship at a premium cost.

Under the guidance of their instructor Paul Eidle, Daniel Lombardi from Baldwin, Anthony Spedaleri from West Hempstead and David Minor from Malverne, reconstructed the cupola.

"We do not believe it could have been done any better than an experienced craftsman," said Jim Pavone, a restoration advisor and Hicksville business owner. "The most experienced carpenter could not have done a better job."

He continued, "This cupola is made a lot better than the original was made. . . it will definitely last at least another 100 years."

Now that the construction is finished, the museum is eagerly looking toward outfitting the dome with copper. Leonard and Anthony Paulych, from Lynbrook and who have worked in Europe, will do the copper plating.

"Everybody is excited about maintaining the historical significance of the building. To see this building survive 104 years, no one wants to see it go down."

Bill Bennett, the museum director, is hoping to have the cupola back on top of the Gregory Museum by August or September.