Discussion on the history and preservation of Montauk's Seven Sisters, designed by famous architects. Focus on the unique design challenges and financial struggles faced by the families living in these iconic properties. Explore the reconstruction efforts of a summer cottage after a fire to maintain authenticity. Mention of listener suggestions for future episodes, including a possible Freetown episode.
The Seven Sisters in Montauk showcase historic homes designed by renowned architects with extraordinary pedigrees.
Preserving the architectural integrity of the Seven Sisters poses challenges due to their unique historical significance.
Deep dives
History and Preservation of the Seven Sisters in Montauk
The podcast discusses the history and preservation of the Seven Sisters, a collection of historic homes in Montauk dating back to the early 1880s. Designed by renowned architects McKim, Mead, and White, as well as landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, these homes boast extraordinary pedigrees. The podcast delves into the significance of these houses geographically, highlighting their architectural brilliance and the historical context of the Montaukett tribe's ancestral homelands.
Community and Unique Design of the Seven Sisters
The episode explores how the Seven Sisters formed a unique community of summer houses with a planned approach rather than standalone structures. These high-maintenance properties are characterized by their historical prominence and unique architecture that harmonizes with the natural landscape. The podcast touches on the residents' dedication to preserving the historic integrity of the homes, emphasizing their significance and the challenges faced in maintaining these properties.
Towards Preservation and Future Prospects
The podcast reflects on the efforts to preserve the Seven Sisters and addresses the challenges faced in maintaining these properties due to their historical nature. It also discusses the remote location of the homes, adding to their charm and historical value. Furthermore, there is a mention of future developments, such as the potential conversion of the clubhouse into a private residence, underlining the ongoing dedication to the preservation of this unique architectural ensemble.
Esperanza and Irwin discuss the storied history of Montauk's Seven Sisters. In the late 1880's, Arthur Benson, the developer of the Brooklyn neighborhood Bensonhurst, purchased 10,000 Montauk acres, and within it, created a fishing retreat for six friends and himself. The houses were designed by McKim, Mead and White, and sited by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead. Kitchens were small, as meals were taken at a clubhouse. The 300 degree views of the ocean seemed to defy geography. 140 plus years later, they stood the test of time. Architectural critic Paul Golberger calls it "one of the most important architectural assemblages on the East coast".
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