Our Hamptons

From street racing to a prestigious racetrack, the podcast delves into Bridgehampton's evolution as a mecca for auto racing. Discover the Italian immigrant racer who transformed the racetrack design and the fundraising efforts at Henri Austin Clark's museum. Explore the rich history and impact of Bridgehampton's racing legacy, featuring challenging corners and renowned racers.

Esperanza and Irwin welcome Build.In.Kind/East Hampton founder Jaine Mehring.  To “build in kind” means to renovate or rebuild a structure basically as it is—in the same form and existing footprint.  To those of us who live, visit or even read about East Hampton knows this is rarely talking place.  In fact, for years now, we’ve been seeing the opposite – it’s been mainly “all demo, no reno.” And mostly, it’s been all about…BIGGER. Houses, even not very old ones, are demolished and replaced with new structures, most often double to quadruple the size.  Or new construction on previously undeveloped parcels clears and covers as much of the lot as possible, driving a rapid surge in density where there had been a sense of open space.  This episode coincides with the October 8 screening of One Big Home, a film by Thomas Bena presented by Build.In.Kind/East Hampton and Wainscott Heritage Project.   The film documents how citizens of Chilmark Town on Martha’s Vineyard came together and passed changes to their bylaws that limited house size in order to respect and protect the history, character, environment and quality of life of their community. The film screening will be followed by a Panel Discussion and Q&A with Thomas Bena and Special Guests.  Our Hamptons Podcast was pleased to provide additional support and sponsorship for this event.

Esperanza and Irwin discuss 100+ years of Bell Estate history and folklore. Dr. Dennistoun Bell’s 21 room Georgian Manor house on a bluff over Gardiner’s Bay, with outbuildings, guest cottages and a funicular! His generosity led to 120 Town preserved acres at Albert’s Landing and Fresh Pond. The end of the 20th century brought the power couple Reginald and Loida Lewis as the final lords of the manor. Subdivisions have consumed much of the 500+ acres, but there are glimpses still of what once was.

Leisurama Part 2 brings Esperanza and Irwin to present day Montauk.  While many of the original Leisurama's have been renovated beyond recognition, or replaced by larger homes entirely, the bones are still evident.  Past and current real estate ads for Leisurama are contrasted to the original marketing plan, and the value of an intact Leisurama as a piece of history is discussed.    

Esperanza and Irwin explore the crazy history behind Leisurama of Montauk.  The story starts with a piece of history: the 1959 "Kitchen Debate" between Soviet Premier Nikita Khruschev and Vice President Richard Nixon taking place in a...you guessed it...Leisurama Kitchen in the American National Exhibition in Moscow. The cast of characters now include the architect Andrew Geller, Marketing Director William Safire and Montauk legend Frank Tuma, as the story moves to 1964 NYC, where Leisurama's were sold in Macy's flagship Herald Square store.  Legend has it, you went in to buy a shirt, and came out with a house, furnished down to the toothbrushes.  Tune in for part one of this only in America story!

The podcast explores the history and challenges faced by Sag Harbor Hills, Azurest, and Ninevah Subdivisions, featuring the incredible story of sisters Maude Terry and Amaza Lee Meredith. It highlights the efforts to gain historic recognition, the threat of excessive development, and the importance of preserving the neighborhood's legacy amidst modern pressures.

Explore the rich history of Sag Harbor as a whaling port and the diverse workforce. Learn about the multicultural harmony in Eastville and the extraordinary story of the sisters Maude Terry and Amaza Lee Meredith. Discover the founding of Azurest and the challenges faced by African American communities in the Hamptons.

The discussion tackles the significance of monuments created by the Shinnecock Nation, highlighting both their cultural importance and the economic challenges facing the community. Clashes with local and state authorities over tribal sovereignty emerge as a central theme. The creative role of billboards as a means of storytelling and representation is examined, shedding light on Native American narratives. As local attitudes shift, broader community issues also emerge, balancing humor with serious social commentary.

Exploring the historical significance of Wainscott, including the Osborne homestead and Wainscott Chapel. The Wainscott Sewing Society's community impact. The Walker family, Conklin House, and the iconic Georgica Association. Preservation efforts and the importance of historical sites

Exploring the historical significance of Wainscott on Eastern Long Island and the residents' dedication to preserving its unique identity. Discussion on the evolution of Wainscott, preservation efforts of historical landmarks, and exploration of early settlers and African American history in the area.