Brookhaven

Brookhaven, New York, is a town situated in Suffolk County on Long Island. It is the largest town in New York by area, encompassing several hamlets and villages. Its history is rich and varied, reflecting the broader history of Long Island and the development of suburban America.

Early History

• Native American Period: Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Setalcott tribe. Artifacts and historical evidence indicate a significant Native American presence in the region.

• Colonial Settlement: European settlers began arriving in the mid-17th century. Brookhaven was officially established in 1655, when settlers from Connecticut, led by Captain John Underhill, purchased land from the Setalcott tribe. The town was named after Brookhaven, England.

Development and Growth

• 18th Century: Brookhaven developed primarily as an agricultural community. During the American Revolutionary War, Long Island, including Brookhaven, was occupied by British forces. Several residents were loyalists, while others supported the Patriot cause.

• 19th Century: The town continued to grow with the development of the Long Island Rail Road in the 19th century, which facilitated travel and trade. This period also saw the rise of shipbuilding as a significant industry, especially in the village of Patchogue.

20th Century

• Suburban Expansion: After World War II, Brookhaven, like much of Long Island, experienced a population boom. The construction of highways and suburban housing developments transformed the area from rural farmland into a bustling suburban community.

• Brookhaven National Laboratory: Established in 1947 on the site of a former Army camp, the Brookhaven National Laboratory is a major research facility conducting cutting-edge scientific research. It has been home to several Nobel Prize-winning discoveries.

Notable Historical Figures

• William Sidney Mount (1807-1868): A renowned 19th-century painter known for his depictions of rural American life, Mount was born in the town of Setauket, now part of Brookhaven.

Important Landmarks

• Stony Brook University: Founded in 1957, Stony Brook University is a major public research university and part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It serves as an important educational and cultural center.

• Fire Island National Seashore: Part of the town is located on Fire Island, a barrier island with pristine beaches. The Fire Island National Seashore, established in 1964, is a protected area offering recreational activities and natural beauty.

• Historic Setauket: The hamlet of Setauket is notable for its historic district, with buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. It was also a key location during the Revolutionary War for the Culper Spy Ring, an espionage network that provided intelligence to the American forces.

Brookhaven continues to be a dynamic community, balancing its rich historical heritage with modern development and growth.