EAST HAMPTON VILLAGE

 

It is common to hear newcomers exclaim that they merely had to drive down tree lined Woods Lane and turn left onto Main Street before they knew that they had to live here. East Hampton has been named “America’s Most Beautiful Village,” and it is easy to see why. The approach is marked by historic homes, the Town Pond with willow trees hanging over its banks, the village green, and the South End Cemetery with tombstones dating back to the seventeenth century. This area is where the first settlement of East Hampton began. Adjacent to the South End Cemetery is a beautifully preserved seventeenth century saltbox-style house known as “Home Sweet Home.” It was the birthplace of the famous composer John Howard Payne who wrote the song by the same name. Many other historic buildings line Main Street, and as part of the historic district of the village, they have been protected and preserved. Additional historic districts within the village have been added to further protect the village from unwanted destruction and development.

The estate section of the village located south of the highway began in the later part of the nineteenth century when wealthy New Yorkers began to arrive on the East End to build summer cottages and estates. East Hampton transitioned from a rural country village into a quiet resort for a few, and then into a favorite spot for many after the railroad was built. Among those attracted to the beauty of the area were artists such as Winslow Homer, Childe Hassam, and Thomas Moran whose arrivals in the 1870’s marked the beginning of East Hampton’s prestige as an artists’ colony. Since this time, more and more artists, writers and other celebrities have flocked to the village of East Hampton, finding that it encompassed all that was sophisticated, lively, and luxurious about living on the East End.

 

• Sense of privacy and seclusion
• Tranquil residential neighborhoods
• Spectacular homes and mansions
• Bustling dining and entertainment scene
• Cultural attractions

 

Despite its luxury real estate and population of high-profile celebrity homeowners, East Hampton still maintains much of its laid-back ambiance. The village is sought-after by buyers who value space and privacy in an affluent, sophisticated community.

 

East Hampton Village has become home to many trendy high-end retailers, art galleries, and upscale restaurants, however, there are still some locally owned stores and boutiques to be found on its busy streets, as well as some museums and other cultural attractions.

One significant draw is the greatly loved Guild Hall and John Drew Theater, named after John Drew, a turn-of-the-century actor who lived in East Hampton. Guild Hall is a multi-functional space that combines a museum, theater, and educational space, and was founded by Mrs. Lorenzo E. Woodhouse in 1931 to serve as a community center and to promote an appreciation for the arts. 

Located on the north end of Main Street is the Old Hook Mill built by Nathaniel Dominy in 1806. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is one of the most complete wind powered grist mills still existing on Long Island.

The East Hampton Historical Society is responsible for the maintenance and operation of a complex of museums, national landmark historic sites and workshop facilities of both local and national importance within the Village of East Hampton. Among them are:

 

• Clinton Academy (constructed in 1784) was one of the first academies in New York State.
• The Mulford Farm (circa 1680) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and considered one of America’s most significant intact English colonial farmsteads.
• The Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran Studio (built in 1884) is a national historic landmark. Moran built the first artist’s studio in East Hampton, and it has been described as “a quirky, Queen Anne style studio cottage.” The studio is now a member of the Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios Program of The National Trust for Historic Preservation. This program celebrates the homes and working studios of American artists across the nation.
• The Osborn-Jackson House (circa 1720) was lived in by Osborn descendants for over 250 years. The family were among the first English to build their homes here. In 1977 the building was given to the Village of East Hampton to be used as the headquarters of the East Hampton historical society.

 

 

One popular dining establishment, away from the hustle and bustle, is Fresno, a buzzing, warmly decorated restaurant serving regional contemporary American cuisine. With its relaxed, neighborhood vibe, Fresno is a staple among locals and a must-try for any East Hampton newcomer.

Similarly, the 1770 House Restaurant and Inn should not be missed. It offers patrons a choice of casual traditional pub fare in the downstairs tavern, or a sophisticated fine dining menu in either the main dining room or al fresco on the seasonal patio. The refined contemporary American cooking is meticulously prepared by acclaimed chef Michael Rozzi.

For a casual taste of something exotic, the Hampton Chutney Co. is sure to do the trick, serving dosas (South Indian crepes) stuffed with flavorful fillings like goat cheese, spicy potatoes, and grilled chicken. The laid-back atmosphere and quick service make it an excellent stop for a grab-and-go lunch or to meet up with friends.

Alternatively, The Palm steakhouse, located in the charming Huntting Inn, is a fine dining meat lover’s paradise, serving a range of prime steaks and an exhaustive wine list in a crisp, social club-like setting.

And, for those who prefer to cook up a storm at home, the Red Horse Market is a popular food store stocking fresh produce, seafood, prime meat cuts, freshly baked bread and pastries, as well as a range of ready-made meals to take home for a lazy night in.

A popular destination for walking and enjoying wildlife in the heart of the village is the 24 acre Nature Trail, also known as the “Duck Pond.” Here visitors can enjoy the walking paths, charming footbridges, waterfowl, and other wildlife.

Golfers will be pleased to discover the highly sought-after Maidstone Club and its two, 18-hole and nine-hole, private courses that offer even the most seasoned players a challenge. 

No description of East Hampton Village would be complete without mentioning its many beautiful beaches. Main Beach is probably the most popular, but if you are into a more low key vibe try Wiborg Beach, Two Mile Hollow Beach or Georgica Beach. Egypt Beach is gorgeous and serene, but parking is limited, so you'll have to arrive early.