East Hampton’s Rich History

Up first in my new series on the history of the Hamptons is my hometown of East Hampton. Did you know that the first settlers of East Hampton, arriving in 1648, were English Puritans seeking religious freedom? East Hampton was originally the town of Maidstone, named after Maidstone, England, which was the birthplace of many of those settlers. Today, the name lives on as that of one of East Hampton's private golf courses, the Maidstone Club.

In the early years of the town, agriculture was the primary industry. The settlers cleared the land and began farming crops such as corn, wheat, and potatoes. They also raised livestock such as cows, pigs, and sheep. Fishing was also an important industry, with many of the settlers fishing in the nearby waters for cod, halibut, and other fish. In the mid-1800s, the town began to attract wealthy visitors who were seeking a peaceful retreat from the city, as our beautiful beaches made it the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

The arrival of wealthy visitors led to the development of the town's tourism industry, which is the primary focus of our economy today. Hotels and resorts were built to accommodate visitors, and the town became known as a popular summer destination for the wealthy elite. Many of the newcomers were artists and writers, who were drawn to the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Roy Lichtenstein are just a few of the notable figures who have called East Hampton home.

Lest you think East Hampton is just a wealthy haven for those wanting to enjoy the beach, tennis, and green hedges, the town also played an important role in the development of the United States. During the American Revolution, it was a center of activity for local patriots; the town's residents were heavily involved in the fight for independence, with many of them serving in the Continental Army. The town also played a role in the Underground Railroad, with many people escaping slavery passing through it on their way to freedom in the North.

Throughout our rich history, we have remained a small, close-knit community. We have preserved many of our historic landmarks, including the East Hampton Village Green, which was established in 1657 and is one of the oldest public spaces in the United States. We also champion a number of historic homes and buildings, including the Mulford Farm, which was built in 1680 and is one of the oldest homes in the town.

I’m so proud of where we have come from, and I look forward to where we are going.

--Sarah Minardi