99-Year-Old Piermont Resident to Receive Honors

Piermont's Alfred Bristol has seen a lot in his 99 years.

Conflict in the Pacific theater during WWII, a 70-year marriage to his sweetheart Carolyn and business interactions with Bill Cosby and former president Jimmy Carter are just a few of Bristol's talking points. And on June 11, he will receive a Living Landmark Award from the Historical Society of Rockland.

The ceremony is slated for June 11, 12:30 p.m. at Tappan's 76 House. (110 Main Street, Tappan.)

Bristol was born in Newark, NJ in 1911. He joined the National Guard in 1931—shortly after the start of the Great Depression—and became a machine gun operator with an infantry outfit. Bristol served in the Pacific during WWII, eventually attaining the rank of 1st Lieutenant.

After the Allies' victory, Bristol returned home and wed Carolyn; the two will celebrate their 70th anniversary later this year.

After the War, the Bristols began their long relationship with Rockland. They moved to Orangeburg's Shanks Village in 1946 at the suggestion of relatives. Years later they relocated to the second floor of what is now the Tappan Library. (Bristol was a trustee/president of the Tappan Library from 1963 until 1995.)

In his professional life, Bristol organized exhibitions for famed auction houses like Southeby's and Parke-Bernet. Over his 65 years in the business, Bristol rose to the rank of assistant vice president and worked alongside clients like Israel Sack, Bill Cosby and former President Jimmy Carter.

The Rockland Historical Society lauded Bristol's accomplishments and character in a release promoting the upcoming honor.

"He has earned the reputation as someone who can diffuse conflicts and someone who can bring people together who would otherwise be at odds," Historical Society members noted. "He is beloved by all who know him. When asked about the credits to his success he remarks that it is all about taking time to get to know people, always listening and maintaining a love of staying involved in your community—at home or in your workplace."

Bristol also marched in last month.

For more information on the coming ceremony, contact Clare Sheridan at c.bowes.sheridan@gmail.com.