I lived there the summer of l938, when I was 16. You can do the math, to see how old I am...
I do remember a Mrs. Tuttle, who had been a famous swimmer. I played with a young girl who lived with her--could have been her daughter or niece. Mrs. Tuttle would fix us cocoa and cookies, and would tell us about her adventures.
I also remember a bit to-do, about the fact that Father Devine, an evangelist had taken up residence in Sayville, or East Sayville. For weeks, that was all that people could talk about.
One of my recollections was that Bill Thompson, and Bob LeSeur, who was a radio announcer and uncle of my stepmother, were engaged in building a small boat. It turned into a community enterprise, with everyone pitching in. I was allowed to help with the caulking. When it was completed, there was a big discussion as to what to name it. Finally, they decided to call it the "BillBo, after which they all went down to Snapper Inn to celebrate. It was quite an event. My treat was a double chocolate Malted Milk.
Another of my recollections is that of Lucy Thompson, wearing a dark green rubber poncho, going all around the place pulling up weeds. She was a warm friendly person, and loved to garden. She usually had a pair of clippers with her, and would nip off an overly exuberant branch of a shrub..
I think that much of what transpired during the time I was there, has already been documented and don't know if I can add much.
My father was an artist,--Arthur D'Artois, and we spent several summers at the Colony. That was way back in the 40's when Lucy Thompson, owned the buildings. My father and Bill Thompson , one of Lucy's sons , were great friends. Bill, at that time had a tendency to over-imbibe, and often my father would have to make sure he got home safely. I believe, Bill's favorite watering place was called "Snapper Inn." Don't know if it is still there.
I am attaching a picture painted by my father of the entrance to the Colony, Sorry, it is not a very good photo. I took it in haste when I was having some work done in my living room, and wanted a record of where each painting was to be rehung when the work was finished.
We lived in the part of the building that has the huge chimney, and which originally was occupied by the blacksmith when the estate was still owned by the Vanderbuilts. The blacksmith had his forge in that area, but of course it had been removed when the building was converted into living quarters. The adjoining area--on the extreme right of the picture, was the stables, and was used by my father as his studio. The area over the arch used to be the tack room where the harnesses, and other equipment for the horses were stored.
When we lived there, it was used as a studio for several actors who were rehearsing for a play. One summer a Wagnerian opera singer was busy rehearsing for her role as Brunhilda, and I still remember her marvelous singing.
2 comments
The Tally-Ho Inn was a famous restaurant and Inn located in the historic Oakdale Artists’ Colony on Long Island. It was located over the arch. It was established in the early 20th century. The colony was a hub for painters, actors, and writers.
The Tally-Ho Inn acted as the colony’s central gathering spot, housing a well-known restaurant that was rumored to operate as a speakeasy during the Prohibition era
Just a little information about the history of the artist colony
Dear Neighbors,
I wanted to take a moment to share some fond memories of the Bunting family, who have long been a part of our community’s rich history. Many may not recognize the Bunting name, but they were the first owners of the main chicken coop and a fundamental part of our artist colony.
Meeting the Buntings was a true delight. In those days, our neighborhood felt more like an extended family, with people frequently gathering, visiting each other’s homes, and fostering a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Hilda, affectionately known as Mrs. Bunting, once owned a fabric store in Sayville. While I’m not entirely sure what her husband Jim, often referred to as Mr. Bunting, did for a living, I do know he played a significant role in our community. He was a founder of the Connetquot Library, and there’s a plaque honoring him as you enter – a lasting tribute to his contributions. He also had a connection to Dowling that I cannot fully recall.
Mr. Bunting had a passion for gardening, particularly roses, which he tended with great care. Even in winter, he would cut them back and cover them with jars, ensuring their protection. When I met them, they were enjoying their retirement. I fondly remember one gathering where they competed in a tennis match on TV, demonstrating their impressive skills – certainly far superior to mine!
Hilda often shared amusing anecdotes about her pet pig named Ollie, who lived on my property and was known for breaking loose and exploring the neighborhood. She would reminisce about the neighborhood parties where everyone dressed up and engaged in friendly tomato fights, and the carefree days when their children swam in the nearby canals. They were truly a joy to be around.
One memorable occasion was their 50th wedding anniversary. Unsure of what gift to give, I decided to craft a cheesecake wedding cake. Although I’m not much of a baker, I had a knack for cheesecakes! I borrowed wedding pans from a neighborhood bakery—an act of kindness that feels rare nowadays—and purchased strawberry syrup from Baskin Robbins on Montauk Highway. I decorated the cake with flowers from my garden and, alongside a few neighbors, carried it over to their home. The look of appreciation on their faces was priceless.
Recently, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with the only remaining child of the Bunting family during his visit to our neighborhood. He spoke fondly of growing up next to the main chicken coop and even recalled the time I called him to see if pony rides could be held in my backyard. It was heartwarming to witness his nostalgia for our shared past.
I write this letter not only to remember the Bunting family but also to preserve their legacy in our community. They played an indispensable role in the history of our artist colony, and their spirit continues to inspire us all.