Our Hamptons

Esperanza and Irwin welcome Ellin and Eliabeth Saltzman. In the early 1960's, Ellin and Renny Saltzman hired a 33 year old architect named Richard Meier to design a modernist family home in East Hampton. Small by today's standards at 4000 square feet, Ellin and her daughter Elizabeth reflect on 5 decades of summers spent in an ever changing East Hampton, as well as the future of their iconic home. A not to be missed Our Hamptons podcast.

Esperanza and Irwin discuss the proliferation of dairy farms on the east end in the not too distant past. If you define a dairy as any farm with more than eight cows, there were once 42 operational dairy farms in East Hampton alone, according to the East Hampton Farm Museum. At that time, “most of the milk was for local consumption,” said Robert Hefner, historic preservation consultant for East Hampton Village. By the 1960s, most dairies on the East End had been shuttered, with the last two operating into the early 1980s—Carwytham Farm in Bridgehampton and Cow Neck Farm in North Sea. We'll focus primarily in East Hampton with the Sherril, Hardscrabble, and Dune Alpin Farms. The dialogue about the Gould and Tillinghast farms, and their subsequent merger to form G&T took us to a side story: the beloved G&T Chicken House on Race Lane.

Esperanza and Irwin first met in 2000, when Esperanza was operating her art gallery, Art Solar on North Main Street, East Hampton. Irwin became a client of the gallery (though it took him a year to buy his first painting!). More importantly, it opened up a dialogue between Esperanza and Irwin, conversations that transcended Art, including the type of subjects you hear today on the podcast. I guess the groundwork for Our Hamptons started well before its May 2022 inception. Listen, and go back in time to where it all started, and how it got here!

Exploring the legacy of Bonac Tonic, the hosts discuss its origin as both a beloved iced tea and an influential artist collective. They share nostalgic memories of local gatherings and the vibrant energy that rejuvenated the Hamptons art scene. Stories of traffic chaos during events highlight the camaraderie among artists. The podcast also touches on memorable exhibitions and the cultural significance of expressions like 'Virgil is a Frog Boy', weaving a rich tapestry of creativity, community, and celebration.

Dive into the scandalous legacy of Millicent Rogers, a high-society icon from a wealthy but tumultuous family. Discover the extravagant 'Port of Missing Men' and its notorious reputation during the Roaring Twenties. Uncover the architectural influence of John Russell Pope and the Olmsteds on Eastern Long Island. Explore how Prohibition changed social dynamics for the elite, illustrating their indulgent lifestyles. Millicent's adventurous spirit and resilient character shine through her complicated life, leaving a lasting legacy in a world of riches and mystery.

Dive into the storied past of Ocean Castle, where opulence met scandal! Discover how bootlegging fueled extravagant lifestyles and led to wild parties that wreaked havoc on the property. Hear about the notorious gatherings that resulted in chaos, including a dramatic night featuring 1600 broken windows. This captivating journey through Southampton's high society reveals a mix of architectural ambition and tragic tales, showcasing the excesses and darker sides of wealth.

Glenn Navia and Stacey Testa, creative minds behind Cedar Cottage Springs, discuss their journey from corporate careers to running a community-focused Airbnb in the Hamptons. They share insights on the evolving rental landscape and the balance between hospitality and community connection. Listeners learn about their unique approach to hosting, emphasizing warmth and personal touches. The couple reflects on the challenges posed by short-term rentals and the importance of maintaining local relationships amidst a rapidly changing environment.

The podcast dives into a nostalgic look at the Hamptons, highlighting a 2006 article that captures the vibrant artistic past of the area. Listeners explore shifting community dynamics shaped by wealth and development, reflecting on friendships forged among artists. Stories of local bars and baseball lore offer a glimpse into cultural traditions, while discussions on preservation illuminate community engagement. The speakers express gratitude for their surroundings and the wisdom gained, reminding us of the enduring connections amid ongoing change.

Discover the intriguing history of the Devon Colony, founded by Cincinnati families in 1908, blending Mediterranean architecture with coastal charm. Learn about the legacy of unique traditions, like cannon shooting at sundown, which enrich the Amagansett community. Dive into the importance of preserving the area's untouched beauty and historic buildings, ensuring that its quaint character remains intact for future generations. Uncover the stories behind the founding families and their connection to the Devon Yacht Club.

Bess Rattray, a columnist for The East Hampton Star and founder of the Anchor Society, shares her insights on preserving her hometown's charm. She reflects on the quirks of growing up in a newspaper family and the challenges of local journalism. Bess discusses the Anchor Society's mission to bring a General Store to East Hampton, addressing issues like 'luxury blight.' The conversation also highlights ways to revitalize the community through partnerships and innovative projects, advocating for a balance between luxury and local character.