Alison and Larry Muller
Long Island Traditions - Climate Change and Sandy
This project examines how Superstorm Sandy affected the seafaring community, its residents, and its maritime traditions in Long Island, New York. It was funded by a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Preserve American Grant.
Fantastic Transcripts
We lost everything in a matter of hours.
Alison and Larry Muller are members of a multi-generational family involved in the fishing and seafood industry in Freeport, New York. Larry Muller was born in 1956 and entered the fishing business through his father and grandfather, starting from a young age. His early work included clamming, eeling, and harvesting killies, progressing to musseling, and working on various fishing boats. Over the years, Larry worked at multiple fish docks on Woodcleft Avenue, managed fish markets, and ultimately founded Island Seafood, a wholesale seafood company. Alison Muller, born into the same family, initially pursued a career in finance but returned to the family business, leveraging her educational background to modernize operations. Alison’s involvement began in childhood, accompanying her father on long work trips, and continued as she assumed more significant roles within Island Seafood.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Alison and Larry Muller, conducted by Nancy Solomon on December 14, 2015, covers the Mullers' extensive history in the fishing and seafood industry. Larry Muller recounts his early years working alongside his father and grandfather, detailing the techniques used for clamming, eeling, and harvesting killies, and his progression to managing fish markets and founding Island Seafood. The discussion includes specific methods and tools used in their trade, such as the construction of traps and the use of tongs for musseling. Alison Muller discusses her initial foray into finance and subsequent return to the family business, highlighting the integration of modern technologies in their operations. The interview also addresses the impact of Hurricane Sandy on their business, including the loss of personal property and the challenges of continuing operations during and after the disaster. Alison and Larry provide insights into the logistical aspects of the seafood business, including sourcing, transportation, and market dynamics. They reflect on their deep-rooted connection to the industry and the adaptations they have made to sustain their family business through changing times and circumstances.
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