Three North Shore businesses were recently named to the inaugural list of New York’s historic businesses.
S.F. Falconer Florist in Port Washington, and Albert Zolezzi Auto Body and the Haller Agency Inc., both of Williston Park were included among the 100 named throughout the entire state. Long Island had a total of 19 entries.
Founded in 1920 by Simon Frederick Falconer, the family business on South Maryland Avenue has been providing its services to the community for over a century.
Falconer, a Scottish immigrant, was gifted a greenhouse by Harry Guggenheim, his former employer, in order to start the business, according to the Historic Business Preservation Registry. The business was nominated by Gina Sillitti (D-Port Washington) of Assembly District 16.
in 2021, South Maryland Avenue was renamed to S.F. Falconer’s Way to commemorate 100 years in Port Washington.
Fred Falconer Jr., grandson of Simon Frederick Falconer and current owner, was named Citizen of the Year by the Community Chest of Port Washington in 2019.
On Willis Avenue, Albert Zolezzi Auto Body was started in 1947 by Albert Zolezzi Sr. Initially starting as a mechanical repair shop, the business expanded when Albert “Joe” Zolezzi Jr. came on board in 1968, according to the registry.
In 1978, Joe’s wife and former East Williston Mayor, Nancy, joined and currently runs the business with their son, Albert.
The Haller Agency has been providing insurance services since December 1938. In 1978, the business moved to Williston Park where it currently stands on Hillside Avenue. In 1990, the business was incorporated as the Haller Agency Inc.
Today, four generations of the Haller family have worked for the agency, with Nicholas Haller III joining in 2019 under CEO Raymond Haller.
Both Williston Park businesses were nominated by Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) of District 19.
