Long Island’s Big Duck: Fun, free and photo-worthy
By Samuel Clopper
Long Island is an area containing many Instagram-worthy sites, but nothing hits the same way as the 20 ft tall Big Duck in Flanders. It is quite literally what is advertised—a large duck. As journalist Kriss MacDonald wrote, “No signs were needed as the novelty structures themselves were literal advertising.”
The Big Duck, which overlooks Reeves Bay and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has a storied history.
Duck farms used to serve a predominant role in the island’s economy, so in 1931 duck farmer Martin Maurer designed a building to be shaped like a Pekin duck and had it constructed on New York State Route 25 in Riverhead. It was used as a farm store and considered a symbol of the area’s economic driver.
In 1937, Maurer had the building picked up and relocated to his new ranch in Flanders, where it served as a rest stop on top of its original purpose.
In 1984, the farm was sold, the store closed and the Big Duck’s legacy was in jeopardy. Suffolk County eventually acquired the building four years later, where it was moved to a nearby park and repurposed to be a gift shop. “Unusual Pekin duck merchandise, lovingly referred to as duck-a-bilia, along with other Long Island specialties, now fills The Big Duck Store.”
The Big Duck finally returned to Flanders in 2007, close to its original home, and would receive landmark historic recognition in 2008.
Along with being a fun and pet-friendly pit stop and gift show; the Big Duck and the Big Duck Ranch also holds events such as an annual Christmas lighting.
The gift shop has very limited hours, so if that’s your goal, it’s important to call and check their hours of operation before leaving. Here’s the number: 631-852-3377 to confirm hours before your visit.
However, even without shopping, it provides a silly spot to stop and get some fresh air while appreciating Long Island’s rich history. It is also a free attraction to see and touch, which often feels like a rarity in today’s world.
