Annual Events
Community Upkeep
The Post-Morrow Foundation emerged from the passionate commitment of Thomas and Elisabeth Morrow to the rural countryside they cherished. Inspired by their love for nature and wildlife, they envisioned creating woodlands, meadows, and streams as sanctuaries for both animals and humans to delight in. Equally important to them was the preservation of the Brookhaven area against the encroachment of suburban development.
Founded in 1969, the Post-Morrow Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission to realize the dreams of its founders. Guided by a dedicated board of trustees and bolstered by unwavering community support, the foundation has worked tirelessly to protect and enhance the natural beauty of the region.
Through strategic land acquisitions, conservation initiatives, and stewardship programs, the foundation has transformed its vision into reality. Woodlands have been preserved, meadows nurtured, and streams safeguarded, creating havens for wildlife and havens of tranquility for all to enjoy.
The Post-Morrow Foundation stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in preserving the beauty and integrity of our natural world. Its legacy continues to inspire generations to come, ensuring that the rural countryside of the Brookhaven area remains a cherished treasure for all.
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Unique Sports
When the temperature hovers below 20 degrees and icy winds whip across the shoreline, most beachgoers retreat indoors. But in Bellport, a different kind of excitement takes hold as members of the South Bay Scooter Club converge along the frosty shores.
Ice scooters, an integral part of Bellport's maritime heritage, have graced the waters of the Great South Bay for over a century. Initially utilized by locals to transport supplies across the frozen bay to the US Lifesaving Station on Fire Island, these versatile craft featured runners attached to their wooden hulls, allowing them to glide over ice and skim over open water with equal ease.
Typically measuring between 14 to 16 feet in length and equipped with a distinctive bowsprit, known as a horn, and two sails, ice scooters epitomize both elegance and efficiency. Their rudderless design requires skilled navigation, with the skipper relying on the sails to steer the vessel. When propelled by strong winds, these scooters can reach speeds of 50 to 60 mph, providing an exhilarating experience for those brave enough to ride them.
Participation in ice scootering is not for the faint of heart. As riders glide across the frozen expanse, the thrill of the experience quickly separates individuals into two distinct groups: those eager to stay on board for the ride of a lifetime and those who may prefer solid ground. It's a test of courage and camaraderie, where friendships are forged and memories are made in the icy embrace of winter.
The South Bay Scooter Club, a gathering of enthusiasts dedicated to preserving and celebrating the tradition of ice scootering, meets at the Bellport Yacht Club at the Bellport Marina during the winter months. Open to all who share a passion for adventure and a love of the sea, the club offers a welcoming community for those eager to experience the thrill of ice scootering firsthand. Whether seasoned veterans or newcomers to the sport, members of the South Bay Scooter Club come together to share stories, swap tips, and revel in the timeless allure of Bellport's maritime legacy.
Photo by Patrice Casanova
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The Old Purchase South
Our name "Old Purchase Properties" pays homage to this rich maritime heritage, reflecting our commitment to tradition, innovation, and the timeless allure of Bellport's coastal charm.
The Old Purchase South in Bellport holds a significant place in the area's history and heritage. It refers to a substantial tract of land on the south shore acquired by a group of settlers in March 1667. This land purchase was made from Tobaccus, a local indigenous leader, in exchange for fifty fadum of wampum, which was equivalent to four fur coats and $16.25 in cash.
The Old Purchase South was not only about land acquisition but also included fishing rights off its shores. Tobaccus granted all whale rights to the Brookhaven settlers, who subsequently employed Native Americans as whalemen. This transaction marked an important chapter in the relationship between the settlers and the indigenous peoples of the area.
Today, the Old Purchase South area in Bellport stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. It serves as a reminder of the early interactions between settlers and indigenous peoples and the importance of the land and its resources in shaping the community's identity.
While the landscape may have evolved over the centuries, with modern amenities and developments now dotting the area, the legacy of the Old Purchase South continues to be honored and remembered by the residents of Bellport as an integral part of their shared history.
Photo by Howie Guja
Old Purchase Properties is a full service independent real estate agency located in the heart of Bellport Village. Established in 1979, our experienced team continues to be the leader in home sales in the Bellport, Brookhaven and East Patchogue area. We value personal connection and we truly look forward to connecting with you!
