Town acquires land with historic background

The Town of Brookhaven and Suffolk County recently partnered to acquire just under 12 acres of undeveloped woodlands along North Street on the Manorville/East Yaphank border.

The site, according to Brookhaven Town supervisor Dan Panico, features mature woodlands, rolling topography and a natural pond. It also has historical significance, having been the site of the home of the Arch family, an African American family residing at the property in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Abram and Huldah Arch acquired the property in 1865 and were part of a network of laborers who were employed by William Sidney Smith (of the Longwood Estate) among other prominent Brookhaven residents. The home is depicted on historical maps dating to 1873.

It is believed the Arches had one daughter (Annie Arch), who was well known within the local community and involved in the AME Zion Church in Center Moriches. She was also a close friend of Mary Bell, whose historic home in Center Moriches is listed on the NYS and National Registers of Historic Places and has been acquired by the Town of Brookhaven.

Mary Bell’s historic home, locally known as the “slave house,” is also located nearby at 66 Railroad Avenue in Center Moriches. The Mary E. Bell House is an example of how emancipated slaves went on to build their own communities. The house and land provided a safe space, the ability to supplement their income with a garden and independent work, and was located close to the AME Church that they played an active role in. 

“This joint acquisition further protects important woodlands in and around the Central Pine Barrens, the Forge River watershed, and furthers the town and county’s efforts to protect and promote our local history through preservation,” Panico said. “Brookhaven Town and Suffolk County look forward to learning more about the rich history of this property.”

The town and county will be hosting a press conference on Wednesday, Aug. 31.