Geoff Gehman, author of "The Kingdom of the Kid: Growing Up in the Long Lost Hamptons," shares heartfelt tales from his childhood in Wainscott during the 1960s. He vividly recounts adventures like crabbing and camping, revealing the emotional ties that draw him back to his hometown. The conversation delves into the area's rich cultural heritage, the enchantment of its natural beauty, and the lasting impact of community initiatives. Gehman also reflects on the significance of local landmarks and the essence of Wainscott that continues to inspire creatives.
Geoff Gehman shares nostalgic childhood memories in Wainscott, emphasizing the joy of freedom and bonding with friends during simpler times.
The podcast addresses the challenges of modernization in Wainscott, highlighting the importance of preserving the area’s charm amid increasing development pressures.
Deep dives
Childhood Memories of Wainscott
Growing up in Wainscott from 1967 to 1972, the author reflects on the freedom and joy of childhood experiences in a unique environment. He describes idyllic days spent crabbing in Georgica Pond, camping by the ocean, and enjoying the simplicity of a rectangular diamond baseball field near a cemetery and potato fields. These formative years fostered strong bonds with childhood friends, including a rivalry rooted in baseball fandom between himself and his best friend, a Yankees supporter. His nostalgic memories highlight the character and charm of the area, creating a sense of belonging and emphasizing the magic of that time.
Preservation of Wainscott's Essence
Throughout the podcast, there is a prominent discussion about the importance of preserving the unique characteristics of Wainscott amidst modernization. The author praises local organizations, such as the Wainscott Citizens Advisory Group and the Heritage Project, for working to maintain the area’s charm and history. He notes that while many changes have occurred, the essence of Wainscott remains visible through landmarks like the one-room schoolhouse and community gatherings. This sense of continuity offers hope and appreciation for those treasured memories while acknowledging that some familiar places have transformed.
Emotional Archaeology and Personal Rediscovery
The podcast delves into the author's journey of emotional archaeology, emphasizing the significance of revisiting memories to understand his past better. After a lengthy absence from Wainscott, he revisited the area to reconnect with his childhood while conducting archival research and conversing with former residents. These interactions and explorations facilitated the writing of his memoir, leading to a rediscovery of cherished memories and key locations that shaped his experience. This process illustrates how revisiting one’s roots can lead to profound personal insights and a renewed appreciation for one’s history.
The Changing Landscape and Community Dynamics
The conversation also addresses the changes that have affected Wainscott over the years, notably an increase in traffic and development. The author observes that the initial charm and relaxed lifestyle he experienced in his youth are being replaced by a focus on property value and exclusivity among new residents. He reflects on how the casual approach of earlier visitors has transformed into a desire for high-end estates, shedding light on concerns that contemporary families may not experience the same sense of safety and community. The discussion captures a nostalgic longing for simpler times while acknowledging the evolving dynamics of this once-tight-knit community.
Esperanza and Irwin welcome Geoff Gehman, the author of The Kingdom Of The Kid: Growing Up In The Long Lost Hamptons. Geoff spent 1967 through 1972 in Wainscott as a young boy coming of age. The memories we all have in those formative years tends to be indelible, so much so that it inspired the book. Geoff regales us here with many of those stories that serves right into the mission of Our Hamptons; the rich sense of place that never seems to cease pulling at our heartstrings.
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