William Wainwright

Who is William Wainwright?

William Wainwright was a real-estate developer who was largely responsible in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for the transformation of Rockaway Beach, New York into a major resort and amusement area.

Wainwright began his association with Rockaway in 1875 by leasing the Sea Side House hotel from James Remsen, who took him as a partner in 1876. He continued to manage and expand the hotel after Remsen's death in 1887. After Wainwright took another partner, the name "Wainwright & Smith" became ubiquitous on different amusement pavilions in Rockaway Beach.