This plaque, on the Amphitheater at Mitchell Park, honors a true Greenport “Friend and Neighbor,” Jerome “Jerry”  R. McCarthy, for his 50 years of service to The Greenport Band. Jerry was a driving force of the venerable Greenport Band for decades, ensuring the village enjoyed melodious summer Friday evenings from 1946 until his passing at the age of 83 in 1998. 

Passionate about music – Circus marches were a favorite – he played the bass drum in the Band and often mapped out themes for the Friday night music programs. Jerry handled the band’s publicity; hauled and set up the band’s signs, chairs, and donation “barrel;” and infamously cracked corny jokes while making announcements during intermission. 

Jerry also was a storehouse of local history with an impeccable memory for Village personalities, and details of community events and lore, including the Band’s history, which dates back to 1851. 

In his typewritten newsletters, he often lead with, “We’re The Spark For the Concert in the Park.” The Village and The Greenport Band were fortunate to have “Jerry” McCarthy as a spark that helped keep such a vital tradition alive, one that continues to this day in Mitchell Park.