It is true what they say: one’s place of birth—with its surroundings, smells, sights, and sounds—draws a person to continue living in a similar way throughout life. The North Fork of Long Island comprises many small towns, including Northport, Mattituck, Southold, Greenport, and Orient Point, and has similarities with the islands and coast of Croatia. Quite a few Croatians have made the North Fork their home. Life on the North Fork is quiet, with farming and winemaking at the center of economic activity; it is rural and picturesque.
Peter Bogovic, for example, had his own electrical company there after he and his family left Astoria in the early 1960s for life on the North Fork. John Bogovic joined the permanent expedition later, as he was a Con Edison worker. Both men were members of the Adriatic Social Club, whose purpose was for people of Croatian background to gather, celebrate, and network.
In 1966, the founders and charter members were Mr. & Mrs. Fabijanich, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Herzic, Mr. John Herzic, Mr. & Mrs. A. Petranich, and Mr. & Mrs. P. Zgombic.
Between Two Shores: Why Croatians Chose the North Fork
The Adriatic Club sums up its history as follows: “As Croatian people who had settled in the New York area were approaching retirement, they were attracted to a beautiful place almost at the end of Long Island called Southold. This tranquil town, with its farms, beaches, and fishing, reminded them of their homeland. In the early 1960s, a group of families originating from the Adriatic island of Krk would frequently gather at each other’s homes to celebrate their friendship and their culture. It was during these times that they discussed expanding to include other people from the Adriatic islands and forming a social club. The idea was implemented. Since most of them were in Southold, they decided to call it The Adriatic Social Club of Southold. In 1966, a meeting was held, officers were elected, bylaws were written, and a banner was created as a reminder of the islands of the Adriatic Sea and the waters surrounding Southold. Special gatherings were created, and celebrations were held four times a year. Sometimes, a picnic was held.
As the Club grew in membership, it became necessary to incorporate to ensure that officers and members would not be personally liable for damages. Accordingly, the Club was incorporated in New York in March 1984 as a not-for-profit organization. It is now known as the Adriatic Social Club of Southold, Inc. The Adriatic Club stands as a non-political organization and takes no part in local, national, or international politics. The goal is, and has always been, fellowship at our social functions.
Keeping the Adriatic Spirit Alive for Future Generations
The success of our Adriatic Club has been achieved through the efforts and dedication of the elected officers and the support of its members and friends. As the Adriatic Club enters its 60th year, it hopes to continue socializing and gathering in friendship for many years to come. The Club welcomes anyone to participate in our festivities, and we encourage families to extend participation to their children and grandchildren so that our culture can continue to flourish for generations to come.”
The current board members of the Adriatic Social Club are: President Mr. Tony Braut, Vice President Mr. Mirko Vrban, Treasurer Mrs. Mila Nemaric, and Secretary Mrs. Martina Vidas.
The president of the club, Anton Braut, born on the island of Krk, has been living on the North Fork, in Southold, for the past 47 years. “I was fortunate to work as a machinist for Gasser & Sons, making parts for X-ray and other machines. My company was located 15 minutes from my house. Living out here is peaceful and nice, just the way I like it. I’ve been president for the past five years, and our club is doing well. The demographics are constantly changing; for example, fewer Croatians live in Southold than they once did. Many of our clubs face the same problem: a lack of young people joining. If we can fix that, everything else is easy,” said the mindful, hard-working gentleman.
The Adriatic Social Club has done benevolent work over the years. Congratulations to the Adriatic Social Club of Southold on its 60th anniversary.
Written by: Josip Bogovic
Foto: Croatians Online
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