The Hamptons region was first inhabited by the Algonquian-speaking Montaukett tribe. The Montauks were a semi-nomadic people who lived in longhouses and subsisted on fishing, hunting, and gathering. They were also skilled canoeists and traders.
European Exploration and Settlement
In 1609, Henry Hudson, an English explorer, sailed into what is now New York Harbor. He followed the Hudson River up to Albany, but he did not explore the Hamptons region. In 1614, Adriaen Block, a Dutch explorer, sailed into Gardiner's Bay and explored the Hamptons region. He named the area "Vlie," meaning "inlet" in Dutch.
In 1640, a group of English Puritans from Connecticut purchased the Hamptons region from the Montauks. They named the area "Easthampton" after their hometown in England. In 1648, another group of English Puritans from Massachusetts purchased the area that is now Southampton.
The Founding of the Hamptons Towns
The first permanent European settlement in the Hamptons was established in Easthampton in 1648. The settlers built a small village on the shores of Gardiner's Bay. In 1657, a group of English settlers from Connecticut founded the town of Southampton.
The Hamptons towns grew slowly in the early years. The settlers were primarily farmers and fishermen. They also built small ships to trade with other colonies. In the 18th century, the Hamptons began to attract wealthy summer visitors from New York City. The visitors built large summer homes in the Hamptons, and the area became a popular resort destination.
The Hamptons Today
The Hamptons is still a popular resort destination today. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, historic villages, and art galleries. The Hamptons is also home to a number of celebrities and wealthy individuals.
Here is a timeline of some of the key events in the history of the Hamptons:
* 1609: Henry Hudson sails into New York Harbor.
* 1614: Adriaen Block explores the Hamptons region.
* 1640: English Puritans from Connecticut purchase the Hamptons region from the Montauks.
* 1648: The first permanent European settlement is established in Easthampton.
* 1657: A group of English settlers from Connecticut found the town of Southampton.
* 18th century: The Hamptons begin to attract wealthy summer visitors from New York City.
* Today: The Hamptons is still a popular resort destination.