Southampton History: Reception — ‘Homefront to Battlefront’, 12.5th | L.I. During Revolution, 12.17th ….

Upcoming Events

Uncovering the Past: Archaeology at Sylvester Manor (Free)

Thursday, November 20

2:30pm – 4pm

Explore how archaeology sheds new light on the contributions and experiences of Black and Indigenous communities at historic Sylvester Manor on Shelter Island over the past four hundred years. Supported by funding from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, graduate students from the University of Massachusetts Boston will share how archaeological discoveries help us better understand how people of African, European, and Native descent interacted, adapted, and transformed the world around them—creating a complex and interconnected history that still shapes our lives today. Join us to learn how the soil beneath our feet inspires a deeper understanding of our collective history.

Exhibit Reception

Homefront to Battlefront: Southampton during WWII

Friday, December 5

4:30pm – 6:15pm

Join us for a special reception celebrating the Southampton History Museum’s exhibit Homefront to Battlefront: Southampton during WWII on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:15 PM. This event honors the numerous local individuals who played a vital role in World War II—both on the Homefront and the battlefield.

Long Island During the
American Revolution

Wednesday, December 17

1pm – 2:30pm

Discover Long Island’s pivotal—and often overlooked—role in the American Revolution in this enlightening lecture by author and historian Bill Bleyer. Learn about the Battle of Long Island, the largest single-day engagement of the war and a devastating defeat that nearly ended the fight for independence in 1776. Bleyer explores the harsh realities of British occupation, which transformed Long Island into a strategic military stronghold and brought years of hardship to its residents. From 1776 until the war’s end in 1783, Long Island remained under British control, making it one of the last areas occupied before the British withdrawal. This compelling talk sheds light on the local impact of a global conflict and the resilience of Long Islanders during a defining chapter in American history.

Hearthside Cheer

Saturday, December 20

5pm – 8pm

Experience a festive evening at the historic Rogers Mansion this holiday season surrounded by friends, community, and holiday cheer! Indulge in expertly curated tastings of traditional dishes prepared by culinary historian Diane Schwindt. Enjoy the sounds of costumed musicians performing classic holiday songs amidst the elegant decor at Rogers Mansion. Join us for this warm-spirited gathering to slow down, connect, and celebrate the joy of the season together.

Learn & Explore

With Love From the SHM
 Veterans Memorial Hall

Did you know when Veterans Memorial Hall was built? Neither do we—sorta!

In honor of Veterans Day, we’re featuring this beloved building, yet there’s a bit of a mystery here:

A recent visit to the Village Building Division, with help from our hamlet’s awesome Planning Director Alex Wallach, revealed that a building permit was pulled in for the structure in 1911, and yet the building cannot be found on any map until the 1930s. Why?!

Read the full about this and all of our postcards in our latest With Love From the SHM post, now live on Facebook, Instagram.

To see all the postcards from this post and others we’ve posted in the past visit our website.

Visit our four historic sites

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