East Hampton Village, founded in 1648, is historically significant and fondly known as the most beautiful village in America. A group of settlers journeyed from Lynn, Massachusetts and named their new home Maidstone after their original village in England. As the area grew, they renamed it East Hampton, although traces of the name Maidstone still exist today. Farming was the main occupation until after the Revolutionary War when wealthy summer visitors began coming to East Hampton for their vacations. They were attracted by the serenity of the area and the beauty of the beaches. For the same reasons, a group of artists known as the Tile Club were also drawn to the area. Some of the more famous members of this club were Thomas Moran and Childe Hassam whose paintings have stood the test of time.
East Hampton still attracts many artists and has numerous galleries featuring their work. The restaurants and gourmet food shops would please even the most critical gourmet. Boutiques and antique shops abound. Writers have found a creative haven here for their outputs. And many film makers have chosen to make East Hampton their second home; the community supports the thriving Hamptons International Film Festival.
The sports person can choose fishing, boating, golf, tennis, and horseback riding. The beaches for swimming, sunbathing and surfing are some of the most beautiful on the East Coast. The historic sites, several of which were part of the original settlement, are also an attraction for families and history buffs. With its extraordinary combination of country living and sophisticated entertainment, East Hampton offers something for everyone.
POINTS OF INTEREST
East Hampton Historical Society.
Operates four local historic sites and museums, all on or near main Street in East Hampton.
The Osborne-Jackson House.
Circa 1740, stands on its original site and house the administrative offices of the Society.
Clinton Academy.
Built in 1784 as the first preparatory college of New York State, is now used for exhibitions and public programs.
Town House.
A charming one room schoolhouse dating from 1731, provides an 1860's classroom experience led by a costumed interpreter.
Mulford Farm,
with a saltbox house and English style barn dating from 1860, offers a living history with lectures, workshops and a children's camp on the site. They also operate the
Town Marine Museum and the The Boat Shop on Three Mile Harbor. (Open July-Labor Day)
Guild Hall. Main Street
Established in 1931. A fine arts museum with changing exhibits of regional artists in four main galleries, special events, art classes for children and adults. Home to the John Drew Theater, a 400-seat theater with concerts, stage productions, film festivals,poetry readings and lectures. Open year round. (324-0806)
Home Sweet Home Museum. James Lane.
Built in the 1680's, this saltbox was the childhood home John Howard Payne, a 19th century actor, poet and writer of the famous song for which it is named. Now operated as a museum, it features an extensive collection of English ceramics, furniture and textiles. The 1840 Pantigo Windmill is set in the gardens surrounding the house. (324-0713)
Hook Mill.
Standing at the beginning of North Main Street, the mill was built in 1806 by Nathaniel Dominy, a member of the local family known for their beautifully crafted furniture. The mill is still in working condition and is open for tours during July and August; the grounds are accessible year round. (324-4150)
The Pollock-Krasner House Study Center.
On this site, overlooking Accabonac Harbor in the Springs, stands the former house and studio of abstract expressionist painters Jackson Pollock and his wife, Lee Krasner. Under the auspices of the University at Stony Brook, there are changing exhibits as well as lectures on 20th century art. An art reference library is open to all scholars year round. Docent conducts tours, May-October by appointment only. (324-4929)
PARKS & RECREATION
Maidstone Park. On Gardiners Bay.
At the end of Flaggy Hole Road, off Three Mile Harbor Road-Hog Creek Road. For seasonal permit holders only. Picnic area, ball field, pavilion, and restrooms. (324-4143)
Cedar Point County Park. Stephen Hands Path (608 acres)
Hiking, picnicking, camping, rowboats, saltwater fishing, hunting, 2.5 miles of bridle paths, 1.5 miles of self-guided nature trails.
Herrick Park. Newtown Lane
Baseball fields, tennis and handball courts, children's playground, restrooms, benches and gazebo for quiet times.
East Hampton Trail Preservation Society.
Year round hikes guided by Preservation Society members in East Hampton and its environs. (324-1127)
East Hampton Village Beaches.
For permit information, call 324-4150.
Georgica Beaches.
At the end of Apaquogue Road and Lily Pond Lane on Atlantic Ocean. Restrooms and lifeguards.
Main Beach.
End of Ocean Avenue, off Montauk Highway on the Atlantic Ocean. Lifeguards, food service, pavilion, lockers, showers. Daily parking fee for residents.