East Hampton is set to mark its 375th anniversary with a History Festival hosted at the iconic Mulford Farm Historic site. On Saturday, September 30, from 10 am to 2 pm, the community is invited to join in this celebration, free of charge. The festival promises a captivating array of activities presented by over a dozen historical organizations spanning from Wainscott to Montauk.
“This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the East Hampton Historical Society’s custodianship of Mulford Farm,” shared Steve Long, the Historical Society’s Executive Director. “It’s truly exciting that we can utilize this historic gem to commemorate the extensive tapestry of East Hampton’s history, a legacy that extends far beyond 1648.”
Barbara Borsack, Chair of the History Festival Committee, added, “Mulford Farm has been the backdrop for numerous family events that shine a spotlight on our rich local heritage, making them some of my favorite projects. This festival presents an excellent opportunity for community members of all ages to discover what makes East Hampton such a remarkable place. I look forward to seeing many friends and neighbors there.”
The History Festival promises an immersive experience featuring Revolutionary War reenactors, historical demonstrations, traditional games, music, craft exhibitions, and costumed interpreters. Festival-goers can also savor a delicious lunch courtesy of the Lion’s Club, grilling hamburgers and hotdogs to support local charitable causes. All the festivities unfold on the picturesque grounds of Historic Mulford Farm, nestled at 10 James Lane in East Hampton.
The Mulford Farm is the perfect place to represent the Hamptons’ history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of America’s most significant, intact, English Colonial farmsteads. The house itself is an artifact, telling the story of the origins of colonial life that still affects our lives today.
Remarkably, the home has remained unchanged since 1750 after being built in 1680. Moreover, the Mulford Barn, built in 1721, is a profound example of early 18th-century construction methods and materials.
The Historical Society has collaborated with representatives from more than a dozen local history and community organizations for this event. Partners include the Amagansett Life Saving Station Museum, the East End Classic Boat Society, the East Hampton Garden Club, the East Hampton Historical Farm Museum, the East Hampton Trails Preservation Society, East Hampton Village Historic Services, Eastville Historical Society, the Ladies Village Improvement Society, the League of Women Voters, the Montauk Historical Society, Montauk Library, the Montaukett Nation, the Shinnecock Nation, the Springs Historical Society, and the Wainscott Heritage Project.
For additional details about the History Festival celebrating East Hampton’s 375th Anniversary, please visit the East Hampton Historical Society’s website at www.EastHamptonHistory.org.
