St. James

St. James, New York, is a hamlet and census-designated place in the town of Smithtown, Suffolk County, on Long Island. Its history is rich with notable events, historical figures, and landmarks that have contributed to its character.

Early History: St. James was settled in the 17th century, as part of the larger settlement efforts on Long Island. Initially, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, most prominently the Setalcott tribe. European settlers began to arrive in the mid-1600s, with Richard "Bull" Smith being one of the most notable early settlers. Smithtown, the town in which St. James is located, was named after him.

19th Century: The hamlet began to develop more significantly in the 19th century. St. James was a popular summer retreat for wealthy families from New York City, who built summer homes in the area. The arrival of the Long Island Rail Road in the mid-19th century made travel to and from St. James easier, further encouraging its growth as a summer destination.

Notable Figures:

• Stanley Andrews: A notable resident of St. James, he was an actor best known for his role as "The Old Ranger" on the television series "Death Valley Days."
• William Jay Gaynor: A former mayor of New York City, Gaynor had a summer home in St. James, where he spent a significant amount of time.

20th Century and Beyond: St. James continued to grow through the 20th century, transitioning from a summer retreat to a more permanent residential community. The post-World War II era saw a boom in suburban development across Long Island, and St. James was no exception.

Landmarks:

• St. James General Store: Established in 1857, it is one of the oldest continually operating general stores in the United States. The store has become an iconic landmark of the hamlet and reflects its 19th-century charm.
• Deepwells Farm Historical Society: A historic site that includes a Greek Revival farmhouse dating back to the 1840s. The site is often used for cultural and community events.
• St. James Episcopal Church: Built in the 19th century, this church is another historic landmark that adds to the character of the hamlet.

St. James today is known for its quaint, small-town feel and historical architecture, making it a desirable place to live on Long Island. The community continues to celebrate its history through various local events and preservation efforts.