Our Hamptons

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.

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.