City’s History in Brief in Brookhaven, New York, United States
1. Old Wyandanch Church
An 18th-century Dutch Reformed church, serving as a testament to the region's early European settlers.
- Early Settler History: Features an original bell from 1760.
- Architectural Significance: One of the oldest surviving churches in Brookhaven.
- Cultural Preservation: Regularly hosts historical events and exhibits.
2. Parrish Art Museum
A modern art museum showcasing American artists, with a focus on works from Long Island.
- Long Island Art: Features a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artwork.
- Architectural Beauty: Designed by internationally-renowned architects, Herzog & de Meuron.
- Community Engagement: Offers workshops, lectures, and educational programs for visitors.
3. Stockton Hall at Stony Brook University
A historic building on the campus of Stony Brook University, originally built as a summer resort in the early 20th century.
- Historic Architecture: One of the oldest buildings on the Stony Brook University campus.
- Academic Landmark: Now serves as a venue for university events and ceremonies.
- Campus Tour Highlight: Provides a glimpse into the University's past as a summer resort.
4. Grant's Tomb State Historic Site
The burial site of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia Dent Grant.
- Presidential History: The only presidential monument located on Long Island.
- Horticultural Beauty: Features a beautiful, well-maintained garden.
- Peaceful Retreat: Offers a tranquil and reflective space for visitors.
5. Vanderbilt Museum & Planetarium
A museum showcasing the life of William Vanderbilt II and his collections, along with a planetarium.
- Millionaire's Row History: A mansion built in the early 20th century by a prominent Long Island family.
- Planetarium Experience: Offers night sky shows and astronomy education programs.
- Marine Preservation: Features a marine laboratory and exhibit on marine life.
6. Long Island Museum of American Art, History & Carriages
A museum dedicated to Long Island's history, featuring art, carriages, and historical artifacts.
- Regional History: Highlights the unique history of Long Island.
- Art Collection: Features works by renowned American artists.
- Carriage Exhibition: Showcases a collection of antique carriages from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
7. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
A biological research institution famous for its work in genetics and molecular biology.
- Scientific Discoveries: Home to groundbreaking research in genetics, molecular biology, and neuroscience.
- Historic Building: Built in the late 19th century as a summer estate.
- Visitor Experiences: Offers educational programs and tours for visitors.
8. Mount Mitchell State Park
A scenic park featuring a hilltop view of Long Island Sound.
- Natural Beauty: Offers panoramic views of Long Island Sound.
- Hiking Trails: Features multiple trails for hiking and birdwatching.
- Historic Significance: Site of a historic battery used during the American Revolution.
9. Gold Coast Mansions
A collection of opulent mansions built by wealthy families in the early 20th century.
- Millionaire's Row History: Represents the opulence and grandeur of Long Island's Gilded Age.
- Architectural Beauty: Features stunning examples of Tudor, Georgian, and Colonial Revival architecture.
- Guided Tours: Can be visited through guided tours or open house events.
10. Setauket-Given Memorial Hall
A historic building serving as a community center and museum in Setauket.
- Community Hub: Has served the Setauket community since its construction in the early 19th century.
- Local History Museum: Features exhibits on the history of Setauket and surrounding areas.
- Special Events Venue: Hosts cultural events, concerts, and community gatherings.
11. The Cedar Creek Farmhouse Museum
A historic farmhouse dating back to the early 17th century.
- Early Settler History: One of the oldest surviving farmhouses in Brookhaven.
- Authentic Experience: Retains its original colonial architecture and interior design.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and tours on colonial life.
12. Conscience Point
A scenic point offering views of the Conscience Bay and a historic Indian village.
- Natural Beauty: Features stunning views of the Conscience Bay.
- Historic Significance: Site of an Indian village dating back to the 17th century.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
13. The Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park & Children's Zoo
A zoo featuring native and exotic animals, along with a children's petting zoo.
- Wildlife Education: Offers educational programs about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
- Family-friendly Attraction: Features a children's petting zoo for younger visitors.
- Exotic Animal Encounters: Allows close encounters with exotic animals, such as kangaroos and wallabies.
14. Caleb Smith State Park Preserve
A park featuring hiking trails, a pond, and a historic mansion.
- Natural Beauty: Offers scenic hiking trails through woods and meadows.
- Historic Mansion: Features the Caleb Smith Mansion, a historic estate built in the early 19th century.
- Picnic and Recreation Area: Provides picnic areas and recreational facilities for visitors.
15. The Brookhaven National Laboratory
A national laboratory focusing on nuclear physics and energy research.
- Scientific Research: Conducts cutting-edge research in various fields of science.
- Historic Significance: Established in the mid-20th century as part of the Manhattan Project.
- Public Tours: Offers select public tours and educational programs.