Southold Historical Society seeks help to restore Main Road building
The Southold Historical Society recently purchased the historic Beckwith-Hartranft-Gillispie building on Route 25 in the center of Southold, and is now raising funds to restore the space and use it to exhibit historical society’s acquisitions.
The building, which most recently served as a real estate office, dates back to the mid-1800s, al though the exact construction date is not known, according to the historical society. There is also a large 19th century barn at the rear of the property.
Captain Sherburne A. Beckwith operated his ship supply business out of the building during the American Civil War and built his home next door.
In the early 20th century, the building was Frank T. Wells’ general store and later painter Joseph Beckwith Hartranft’s studio and store. For the last 20 years, it served as the headquarters of Robert Gillispie III’s North Fork Agency.
For more information, go to www.southoldhistoricalsociety.org or call 765-5500.
