There is no point in going to the eastern tip of Long Island to see John Steinbeck’s Sag Harbor without also stopping earlier on Long Island at Theodore Roosevelt’s home, Sagamore, at Oyster Bay. The house was closed the day I visited. Still, the grounds were open, which gave me time to wander the estate, imagine the hyperkinetic Roosevelt family in residence, observe TR’s home base without the usual press of visitors, and — for half an hour — sit in one of the rocking chairs on the veranda. Here’s my report.
Over the next few months, Clay is shadowing Steinbeck’s 10,000-mile trek around the USA (and making a few detours of his own). Clay’s expedition is a central part of LTA’s big initiative to explore the country and take the pulse of America as it approaches its 250th birthday. Be sure to follow Clay’s adventures here and on Facebook — and subscribe to our newsletter.