Welcome to Amityville, a village with a rich tapestry of history and lore, nestled on the South Shore of Long Island, New York. Amityville’s story begins as far back as 1653, when settlers from Huntington discovered this area, initially drawn by the abundant salt hay for animal fodder. The land was formally deeded five years later by Chief Wyandanch, marking the beginning of what would become a vibrant community.
Originally known as Huntington West Neck South, the village underwent a name change in 1846. Legend has it that during a chaotic meeting to establish a post office, a participant exclaimed, ‘What this meeting needs is some amity,’ leading to the village’s current name. Another tale credits Samuel Ireland, a local mill owner, with naming it after his boat, the Amity. Regardless of which story you believe, the name ‘Amityville’ speaks to a spirit of friendliness and cooperation.
Amityville officially became a village in 1894, and by the early 1900s, it had blossomed into a popular tourist destination. Large hotels and grand homes lined the bay, attracting notable figures such as Annie Oakley and vaudevillian Fred Stone. The village also boasted a connection to Hollywood, as Alec Baldwin, a versatile actor known for works like ’30 Rock’ and ‘The Hunt for Red October,’ was born here.
The village’s historical timeline took a darker turn in November 1974, when Ronald DeFeo Jr. tragically murdered his family, an event that would later inspire the infamous book ‘The Amityville Horror’ by Jay Anson. The book, although controversial for its depiction of alleged paranormal activity, forever intertwined the village’s name with horror lore. Despite the sensationalism, local residents and the Amityville Historical Society prefer to focus on the village’s more amicable and culturally rich past.
As you explore the streets of Amityville today, you might pass by the house that inspired ‘The Amityville Horror.’ Though renovated and with its address changed to deter unsolicited attention, it remains a point of interest for many. Beyond its infamous tales, Amityville is a charming village with a strong sense of community. Its historical architecture and scenic views of the Great South Bay continue to attract visitors.
Amityville’s legacy is one of resilience and reinvention. From its early days as a farming settlement to a tourist haven, and now a living community with its own police department and vibrant culture, Amityville remains an intriguing piece of Long Island’s history. Its stories, whether rooted in fact or fiction, offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and a testament to the enduring spirit of its people.
