Amagansett Past and Present

If you missed the first edition in my new series, #HistoricalHamptons, take a moment to read about East Hampton, my hometown. We’re so rich in history here on the east end. Next up in the series is East Hampton’s neighbor: Amagansett.

I have to start Amagansett’s story in 1942. Did you know that in this year there was a failed Nazi attack on the United States, when four German spies were dropped off by a submarine on Atlantic Avenue beach? This ‘invasion’ was known as Operation Pastorius. The Germans walked to the train station and headed for New York City on the Long Island Rail Road. A Coast Guardsman noticed them on the beach and alerted both the police and the FBI. If you want more info on this interesting episode, there are a number of books available.

Okay, from 1942 let’s go back to earlier history. Amagansett derives its name from the Montaukett word for ‘place of good water,’ which referred to a water source near what today is Indian Wells beach. The sandbars east of Amagansett, which run for miles before you get to Montauk, meant that fresh water was key to developing the area.

I love Amagansett because the fishing and farming traditions that were a major part of all the Hamptons’ history are still prevalent in the area. Farms abound, and the farm stands of Amagansett are favorite shopping spots for those in the surrounding areas, even if they are a bit of a drive from East Hampton and further west. Oh, the produce! Oh, the quiet of the farmland! Oh, the beaches! And yes, even Further Lane, one of the coveted addresses in all the Hamptons, falls partially in the town of Amagansett.

As Route 27 heads through Amagansett toward Montauk, Main Street shops are another reason to come and visit. There’s also Stephen Talkhouse, the famous and historical music club that three generations of young people have called a watering hole during the summer season. I personally frequent Coche Comedor, where my go to order is the Frozen Margarita with fresh fruit purée, guacamole & chips, sweet potatoe tamale & a dozen Oysters on the half shell to top it all of.

Want to hear more tales of old Amagansett? Try Amagansett Lore and Legend, a historical chronicle of this wonderful town.