Map of Springs

The intention of this map is to provide a glimpse of past and present life in Springs, with the hope to engage your curiosity, start a conversation, and connect our community more deeply. Limited space dictated a selective edit of what we could include. What is not included in this map you will find just as interesting or maybe more relevant from your own perspective. We plan to evolve the content of this map over time as our knowledge and stories evolve.

SPRINGS OR THE SPRINGS…? That is the question!

A Snapshot of Springs History

For millennia Springs was an abundant fishing and hunting ground for Native Americans. Freshwater springs merging with the tidal waters of Accabonac Harbor provided a rich source of life long before the area was discovered by colonial settlers and artists. Accabonac, derived from Algonquian dialect, means “place of ground nuts, root place or place at water.”

Life for the Montaukett Indians changed forever with the arrival of the first European, Lion Gardiner. In 1639, with the help of Chief Wyandanch, Gardiner brokered a deal for Manchonat, now Gardiner’s Island. Springs Fireplace Road got its name from fires lit on beaches at its most northern point, used to signal for supplies and transportation back and forth to the island. Colonization of the area had begun and Springs was at the heart of it.

East Hampton was settled nine years later in 1648. Accabonac Highway was the first road to be cleared to access the valuable salt hay meadows at “Bonac Crick” as locals call it. Fishing, farming, and whaling were staple livelihoods, with slavery and indentured servitude playing a role as the English economic system grew. By the 1800’s a few large cattle farms prospered in Springs and ships sailed from its waters trading goods. Most residents remained self-sustaining homesteaders or baymen.

The arrival of the train in 1895 and automobile in the early 20th century, ushered in another big change to life. In the 1940’s an artists’ enclave began to grow, attracting new residents from “away.” By the 1980’s the transition from an agrarian and fishing economy to a resort community was underway in earnest. The workforce needed to service this new economy came from around the globe. The year-round population has grown dramatically in recent years, thanks to technology enabling workplace migration.

“Bonacker,” once a term of derision for someone from Springs, a clam-digger who lived “b’low the bridge,” is now a source of great pride. As much as Springs has been discovered and rediscovered, it remains a place that inspires deep roots.

A Bit on Springs Art History

Springs has been a magnet for artists since 1945, when Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner bought the Quinn place on Fireplace Road and made it their year-round home. They already had friends in the neighborhood. The critic Harold Rosenberg and his wife, writer May Tabak, had bought a summer cottage on Neck Path the previous year. Soon after, they began inviting others to visit, and weekend guests often became neighbors, among them Willem and Elaine de Kooning, Costantino and Ruth Nivola, John and Josephine Little to name a few.

Within a decade, Springs had replaced East Hampton village as the artists’ mecca. Inexpensive real estate off the beaten track was the initial lure, but as the community grew it became its own incubator.

Today, in addition to Laurie Anderson, Cindy Sherman, and Ross Bleckner, scores of artists, representational and abstract alike, continue to find inspiration in the Springs environment, making it their seasonal or full time home. Away from the pressures of the urban art world, they can create their art, relax in tranquil surroundings, hang out together on the beach, and throw lively parties!

Many also play important roles in civic life, donating their work and time to maintaining and improving the hamlet. Indeed, the sense of community is the glue that binds them. As David Myers wrote in Springs: A Celebration (1984), “The history of art in Springs began with friendship and has thrived because of it.”

The Pollock-Krasner House and Judith Leiber Collection continue to shine a light on the work of some of our bestknown artists. Ashawagh Hall and The Arts Center at Duck Creek provide inspiring venues where visual artists, musicians, performers and writers share their work, nourishing our community and future generations of artists.

Our Bonac Community

Bonac pride is still strong in Springs. Baymen still harvest our waters, and small holders plenish our farmstands. The hard-working and community minded ethic that defines a Bonacker is still an active part of our identity. Our vibrant neighborhood has swelled over the years by new hard-working families and visitors from all over the country and world, making Springs their permanent or seasonal home. Everyone brings a personal dish to the table, adding to Springs character and charm.

A seasonal Farmer’s Market at Ashawagh Hall, delis, farm and fish stands, peppered throughout the hamlet, provide convenient and delicious sustenance without having to travel too far. Marinas and waterfront restaurants line Three Mile Harbor, providing access to stunning sunsets and all the pleasures of coastal life.

The natural environment is truly unmatched and remains so thanks to conservation organizations and efforts by the local community to preserve this unique habitat. Its beaches, bays, creeks and inlets, while still providing a livelihood to some, offer access to all offering us a place to relax, enjoy the water and connect with nature. Art venues, museums and live cultural events feed our imaginations and inspire us year round.

Community spirit beats strong in the heart of Springs through our school, churches, firehouse and many societies and clubs. Deepen and enrich your own experience of being a Springs resident by supporting any one of these largely volunteer organizations. Their doors are open and new faces always welcome.

Inevitably our increasing numbers add strain to the environment. Please let’s all honor the good fortune that has led us to be able to call Springs our home, by respecting its land, waters, wildlife and residents, so we can preserve its beauty and maintain our sense of community for years to come.