A principal of Paramount Custom Homes in Long Island, New York, Mr. William Locantro has built hundreds of luxury homes on the island. Mr. William Locantro is familiar with the long history its villages, known collectively as the Hamptons.

When Europeans arrived, five Native American tribes inhabited the area: the Patchogues, Peconics, Montauks, Poosepatucks, and Shinnecocks. The latter group aided the new arrivals – who gradually appeared on the scene beginning in 1640 – in exchange for protection. Relations between the colonists and the tribes were peaceful as the six villages developed distinctively:

– East Hampton. Witch trials were still in progress after the village’s founding in 1648 as one of the oldest white settlements in America. Agriculture and fishing powered the economy until the 20th century, when East Hampton became a popular destination for wealthy residents of New York City.
To this day celebrities flock to its beaches.

– Nearby Southampton was taken over by the British in the Revolutionary War. Ruins of an old fort still remain.

– Sag Harbor is adjacent to Southampton, drawing its share of rich vacationers. It was established in the early 1700s and features several historic locations.

– Montauk is at the far eastern end of Long Island. It accommodated cattle into the 20th century, but is now known for surfing and fishing.

–William (Bill) Locantro