Our Hamptons

Travel back to 1957-60 East Hampton where the Signa Gallery played a crucial role in shaping the art scene, introducing avant-garde art and challenging the conservative norms. Learn about the impact of artists like Elizabeth Parker and John Little, and the shift from abstract expressionism to pop art. Explore the challenges artists faced balancing creation and consumption, and the significance of gallery locations in attracting clientele.

Esperanza and Irwin discuss the rich Ice Boating history on Mecox Bay.  According to the Water Mill Museum, the sport itself originated in Holland in the early 1600's.  The first known Ice Boat on Mecox was sailed by Daniel Hildreth and Charles Howell in 1837.  The Mecox Bay Ice Yacht Club started with 12 members and 5 boats in 1927.   Ice Boating was about speed, and the sport itself was physical, and very competitive.  The racing on Mecox throughout the 20th century tended to be about one thing: winning.   But changes in both climate and demographics has led to a decline in its popularity.   The Mecox Bay Yacht Club closed down in 1990, and an effort 20 years later met with the opposition of newer residents concerned about the noise, traffic and "pollution" the Club and its non motorized Ice Boats would bring.

Explore the beauty and history of Gerard Drive in Springs, from its scenic views to the challenges of coastal development. Learn about the origins of Gerard Drive, the efforts to restore its natural state, and the ongoing debate on its development. Delve into the historical landscape, environmental changes, and the community's dedication to preserving this picturesque area.

Esperanza and Irwin welcome onelandscape.org founder Margie Ruddick.   With a graduate degree in Landscape Architecture from Harvard, Margie's projects have taken her from Shillim in Western Ghats, India to Queens Plaza in Long Island City, NY.   With onelandscape.org, Margie's focus is the conservation of wild landscapes by integrating science, art, policy, and community.   Margie lives part time in the Amagansett home purchased by her parents in 1957, and the east end has influenced and inspired her professional career.  The farmland, forest, wetland, beaches, dunes, and bluffs from the village of Amagansett to the coastal Napeague stretch serve as a ONE LANDSCAPE “laboratory".

Exploring the 50-year history and impact of Bridgehampton Commons, from resistance to development, the evolution of shopping habits, contrasting views within the community, and the nostalgic shift in shopping dynamics.

Esperanza and Irwin reminisce on the places and people they miss on eastern Long Island.  As the conversation progresses, memories are jarred, and a bit of Holiday Season nostalgia prevails, including a brief "can you top this segment".  We also reflect back on the past 18 episodes of Season One.

Esperanza and Irwin reflect on the haunting history of the White Family Farm in Sagaponack dating back to the 1600s. They discuss the significance of the farm, challenges faced by farming families, and the dramatic White-Petrillo relationship. The chapter explores preservation efforts and legal battles over the land, revealing a unique and unsettling tale.

Explore the vibrant history of iconic watering holes in the Hamptons, from famous patrons like Capote and Steinbeck to the rowdy scene at Murfs. Journey through time at Jungle Pete's with Pollock and the unique social atmosphere of dive bars in Sag Harbor.

Esperanza and Irwin discuss Fair Field from the beginning to present day.  The plan to construct a 100,000 square foot compound on 63 oceanfront acres sent shock waves throughout the East End.  Fair Field had its own power plant, a 100 car garage and multiple outbuildings. Yet the compound violated no laws, in fact it taking up less than 10% of the property.   While its sheer size was staggering, was it really any different than what occurred in the 19th century Gilded Age, or the grandeur estates constructed on Nassau County's Gold Coast in the early 20th century?  Did it irrevocably change Sagaponack's character, or has Fair Field actually been a relatively quiet, off radar neighbor?  Join as we reflect back, and ponder if Fair Field will remain a private residence long term.

Explore the heyday of The Bridge with Can-Am races and Nascar events in the late 1950s, despite economic challenges and rezoning issues. Discover the unlikely alliance between The Bridge and environmental groups, championed by Newsday and Robert Rubin. Uncover the heartbreaking conclusion of The Bridge's story.