Huntington Village Historic District

Huntington Village Historic District is a historic district located in Huntington, New York, within Suffolk County, New York, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district encompasses a significant portion of the village, including the areas surrounding New York Avenue, Main Street, and Wall Street. It is situated near the Long Island Sound and is close to other historic districts, such as the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, the former home of Theodore Roosevelt. The district's proximity to New York City and its rich history make it an attractive destination for tourists and history enthusiasts, including those interested in the works of Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Geography and Location

The Huntington Village Historic District is situated in the heart of Huntington, New York, a town located on the North Shore of Long Island. The district's boundaries are defined by New York Avenue to the north, Main Street to the east, Wall Street to the south, and Considine Park to the west. The area is characterized by its rolling hills, scenic views of the Long Island Sound, and its proximity to the Huntington Harbor. The district is also near the Heckscher Park, a 18-acre park designed by John Charles Olmsted and Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., and the Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, the birthplace of the famous American poet Walt Whitman. The district's location makes it an ideal destination for those interested in visiting nearby attractions, such as the Crab Meadow Beach, the Centerport Beach, and the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.

History of the District

The Huntington Village Historic District has a rich and diverse history, dating back to the 17th century when the area was first settled by English colonists. The district was an important center for trade and commerce, with the Huntington Harbor serving as a major port for the export of agricultural products and the import of goods from New York City and other parts of the American colonies. The district was also home to several prominent families, including the Lloyd family, who were known for their shipbuilding and merchant activities. During the American Revolution, the district played a significant role, with many of its residents supporting the Patriot cause and serving in the Continental Army under the command of George Washington. The district's history is also closely tied to the Long Island Rail Road, which was established in 1844 and connected the area to New York City and other parts of Long Island.

Architectural Styles and Features

The Huntington Village Historic District is characterized by a diverse range of architectural styles, including Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne. Many of the district's buildings were designed by prominent architects, such as Stanford White and McKim, Mead & White, and feature intricate details and ornate decorations. The district's buildings are also notable for their use of local materials, such as brick and stone, and their incorporation of historic architectural elements, such as columns and pilasters. The district's architecture is also influenced by the works of Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Comfort Tiffany, who were both known for their innovative and eclectic designs. The district's buildings have been recognized for their historic significance and have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Notable Buildings and Landmarks

The Huntington Village Historic District is home to several notable buildings and landmarks, including the Huntington Public Library, the Huntington Town Hall, and the St. John's Episcopal Church. The district is also home to the Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, which is dedicated to the life and works of the famous American poet Walt Whitman. Other notable landmarks in the district include the Old Burying Ground, a historic cemetery that dates back to the 18th century, and the Huntington Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse that was built in 1857. The district's buildings and landmarks have been recognized for their historic significance and have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Preservation Efforts and Designation

The Huntington Village Historic District has been the subject of several preservation efforts, including the establishment of the Huntington Historic Preservation Commission and the Town of Huntington's historic preservation ordinance. The district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985 and has been recognized as a historic district by the National Park Service. The district's preservation efforts have been supported by several organizations, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Preservation League of New York State, and the Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities. The district's designation as a historic district has helped to protect its historic buildings and landmarks and has promoted the area's historic significance and cultural heritage. The district's preservation efforts have also been recognized by the American Institute of Architects and the National Council on the Arts.