Southampton History & Culture
The village of Southampton is indeed quite old by American historical standards, tracing its lineage back to 1640. Artifacts of that 17th-century origin still exist. One extant example is one of the oldest buildings in all of New York: Halsey House, constructed during the 1680s, represents a classic example of the English-type frame style. However, it is far from the only significant Southampton structure — farmhouses, mansions, train stations, and more comprise parts of the village’s four national historic districts. Since opening in 1891, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club has hosted the prestigious U.S. Open five times across three centuries. Galleries abound, showcasing the kind of art you might also find on display in a Southampton estate.