A Native American burial site in Southampton is threatened by a proposed housing sub-division and another burial site in Montauk has been saved from development.
A 13 acre property high above Shinnecock Bay along Montauk Highway in Southampton was cleared of trees for the construction of a luxury housing development this spring.
The land, west of the Shinnecock Reservation, is considered to be a sacred burial ground by the Shinnecocks.
Negotiations are ongoing between Southampton Town and the developer to purchase the land with Community Preservation Funds. County Legislator Jay Schneiderman who represents the South Fork wrote to Town officials in support of the purchase.
Schneiderman says he is introducing a resolution which will permit the County to apraise the parcel and join with the Town in the negotiations.
Approval to proceed with the development had been obtained. However on Tuesday the Town Board cancelled hearing on scenic and environmental easements for the project after a construction permit expired.
The Native American Grave Site Task Force urges us to write to the Southampton Town Board members and Ms. Mary Wilson, of the Community Preservation Fund office in support of the purchase of the land by the Town. They can be reached by mail at
Southampton Town Hall
Hampton Road
Southampton, NY 11968
or via the web at www.town.southampton.ny.us/contact.ihtml
Also you are encouraged to write to Suffolk Legislator Jay Schneiderman at Jay.Schneiderman@suffolkcountyny.gov and thank him for his work to save the land.
Dan's Papers reports that after years of litigation a native burial site in Montauk was purchased with funds from East Hampton Town's Community Preservation Fund. Native American artifacts from the late woodland period were found on what was known as the Capurso property.
