The famous Canoe Place Inn had its origins in Mr. Herrick’s home or in the home of his predecessor has not been determined. Records show that the inn was the only house in the wilderness between Riverhead and Southampton. Stephen Herrick’s son, George, purchased the property from his siblings and operated the inn sometime after 1756 until 1785 when he sold it.

During his proprietorship, the inn served as a home to British officers during the American Revolution. (Research by Henry W. Moeller) The officers were there because the British maintained a fort consisting of over two acres of earthworks located on the hill behind the inn that overlooked the main road and the isthmus at Canoe Place. Its location straddled both Peconic and Shinnecock Bays. In 1921 the Canoe Place Inn burned to the ground with the exception of two chimneys that survived the fire. The inn was later rebuilt and enlarged. It is reported to be the oldest inn site in America by historian, Elise Lathrop who researched, Early American Inns and Taverns.

Today, the community is involved in saving the historic Canoe Place Inn, east of the Shinnecock Canal within Hampton Bays, NY. We value your support, let your voice be heard and send letters to Southampton Town in efforts of saving a historic landmark within Hampton Bays.