A major Long Island roadway was recognized Thursday for the important role it played during the American Revolution. 

The first of 26 state markers was unveiled in East Setauket along the new state-designated Washington Spy Trail. It runs along Route 25A from Port Jefferson to Great Neck.

The trail honors the Brewster and Roe families, Nathan Hale and the many unnamed Long Islanders who gathered information from the British and secretly passed the intelligence on to Gen. George Washington.

Many historians believe if it wasn't for the North Shore trail of spies, America might not have won its freedom.

"We don't speak with a British accent today because we won that war, and largely, it was because of the patriots like the Brewsters who put their lives on the line," says Assemblyman Steve Englebright. 

Officials say the "Washington Spy Trail" signage will help boost tourism on Long Island. Community activist Gloria Rocchio, of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, says the trail will also tantalize history enthusiasts.

"We want people to get out from their chair and discover the history and the sights on Long Island's North Shore," says Rocchio. 

All 26 of the spy trail markers are up..