Archives
The Octagon House Est. 1966
Architect Earl Combs chose the octagon shape for his own home in the Pines because its geometric shape appealed to him esthetically. There were practical advantages such as the form is well braced against strong winds; being close to a circle. It provides a great deal of living space ( eight rooms and two baths.) On a high sloping plot 70′ x 100′. The cost at the time to build the house only was $30,00 including a lot of built in furniture.
Fire Island Art history- Jim French
Jim French was an American illustrator and photographer who created the male erotic photography studio Colt Studio, as well as its two predecessors, Arion Studio and The Loger Studio. He was another creative who spent time on Fire Island.
Fire Island Pines People - Alan Brockman 1931-2004
Alan Brockman was a longtime former president of FIPPOA (Fire Island Pines Property owners Association). Under Brockman’s leadership, FIPPOA experienced a sustained period of growth and evolution and Fire Island Pines was largely defined as the community we know today.
Night & Day 2 Benefit 1992
As the 1990’s began the need for benefits for the growing AIDS crisis became important in the Pines community. This one given by John Francis and John Gilliam. They were known as the Boulevard Boys, and played a role in benefits both in the Pines and NYC.
Ship N Shore Est. 1953/ Pines Pantry 1974
The First and Only Grocery Store in Fire Island Pines
Original copy by Juan A. Ramirez NY Times July 22,2022
For nearly 70 years, Pines Pantry has been a one-stop shop for fresh fish, baked goods and lube.
Pines People- Ron McKenna
Ron McKenna was a community minded person, and when he found Fire Island Pines he knew he had to be part of the communities fabric, and so he became deeply involved. In the best way. Because of his relatability he created a bond with the town of Brookhaven where the decision making happened about who could do what in the Pines. With this he became revered and relied upon in the community. It was the legacy he left that has never been replaced…
Pines People- Pepper Fee… Growing up Pines.
In the 1960’s as the Pines was establishing itself as a community children were a big part as many straight local families from Long Island were investing as a summer home. They would have the opportunity to grow up in a different atmosphere than the one they would live in across the bay. Pepper Fee was one…
The Fresco / Doll House Est.1974
Fire Island Pines has always drawn designers of every kind, and sometimes they build their dream homes leaving behind their personal stamp on history…
Creating The Fire Island Dance Festival
Since the first performance in 1995, the annual Fire Island Dance Festival has become one of the most anticipated events in Fire Island Pines.
The Ultimate Oz Party 1995
The 1990’s brought the Benefit to Fire Island Pines. With the advent of AIDS it became clear that the community needed to join the fight. God’s Love We Deliver was just one of the many organizations that reached out to the Pines for support.
Hollywood Shore Leave Party 1985-1994
Like many parties/ benefits throughout the 80’s they created a tradition that lasted through the years. Hollywood Shore Leave is one…
Once upon a time…Almost Summer: Donna Summer in the Pines…
Once upon a time there was a singer who helped to create a sound that defined an era. Her name was Donna Summer, and here is her story of how she almost played in the Pines…
From the Pines with Love 1990
After the success of the first “From the Pines with Love” benefit in 1985 it was decided to have another. Beginning with a dinner at the home of Annette and Herbert Katzin. Chaired again by John Whyte with huge community support. Benefitting CRI Community Research Initiative.
Fire Island Fashion history- Photographer Arthur Elgort & Gia the first Super Model.
Many fashion photographers and models were here for the use of the Pines as a beautiful backdrop. Also for the fringe benefits of the party atmosphere. Such was the case with fashion photographer Arthur Elgort and one of the first super models simply known as Gia.
Art history-Rodger Duncan
Many artists of every creative field made their way to the Pines. It’s natural setting was a haven that inspired creativity. It was only natural that they would give back to the community using their art, and so is the case with fashion illustrator Rodger Duncan. In 1989 he created the “Fashion of the Pines” poster art for the show.
471 Fire Island Blvd Est.1980
Architecture and design have always been part of Fire Island Pines history. Horace Gifford, Scott Bromley just to name a couple of architects who have put their stamp on the Pines. However many designers like Michael Schaible and Robert Bray limited their skill to only their own residence, creating their own vision for themselves.
The TV house Est.1965.
There are many homes in the Pines of notoriety, with shapes from octagon to pyramid by important architects. However there is one that has become a favorite for its unique shape and history called the TV House…
Art History: Robert Mapplethorpe in the Pines
Robert Mapplethorpe first came to the Pines as many do: as the guest of a new lover with a summer share. Summers in Fire Island would introduce him to the famous people he always aspired to be around.
The Parties of the Pines 1990’s
The theme parties, a tradition of Fire Island continues throughout the 1990’s.