Melville, NY

County: Suffolk

History

Melville, New York

Melville is a hamlet located in the Town of Huntington, in Suffolk County, New York. The history of Melville dates back to the 17th century when it was originally inhabited by the Matinecock Native American tribe. The area was then settled by Europeans in the mid-17th century.

The first notable settlement in Melville was established in the late 17th century by the Wickes family, who purchased a large tract of land and built their homestead. The area was primarily agrarian, with farming and cattle raising being the main economic activities.

In the 19th century, Melville underwent significant changes due to the expansion of the railroad. In 1867, the Long Island Rail Road opened a station in Melville, which served as a transportation link between New York City and the eastern end of Long Island. This development brought increased commerce and population growth to the area.

During this time, the area also became known for its numerous pickle farms that produced cucumbers for the booming pickling industry in nearby Huntington. The farming community remained prominent in Melville until the mid-20th century when suburbanization began to take hold.

In the mid-20th century, Melville experienced rapid development as suburban housing projects emerged, largely driven by the post-World War II economic boom and increased demand for housing. The opening of the Long Island Expressway (I-495) in the 1960s further facilitated growth and accessibility to the area.

Today, Melville is primarily known as a corporate and commercial hub due to its proximity to major highways and its attractive business environment. It is home to numerous corporate offices, including those of top financial institutions, technology companies, and healthcare organizations. The economy of the area has shifted from agriculture to services and commerce.

Despite its growth and development, the community has made efforts to preserve its historical heritage. There are several historic landmarks in Melville, including the Wickes Homestead, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.

Overall, the history of Melville reflects the transformation of a small agrarian community into a thriving suburban enclave centered around commerce and corporate activity.

Attractions

Adventureland

Adventureland

A popular amusement park with rides, games, and attractions.

Walt Whitman Shops

A luxury shopping mall featuring a wide range of stores and restaurants.

The Paramount

A concert venue that hosts a variety of performances, including live music, theater, and comedy shows.

White Post Farms

A family-friendly farm where you can interact with animals, enjoy pony rides, and explore the petting zoo.

Plainview Old Bethpage Library

A public library that offers various activities, programs, and events for all ages.

Township Theater Group

A local community theater that produces plays, musicals, and other performances throughout the year.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

A trampoline park with various jump areas, foam pits, and arcade games.

Oheka Castle

Located just outside of Melville, this historic mansion offers guided tours and special events.

Melville Memorial Park

A serene park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a memorial dedicated to local veterans.

Sweet Hollow Park

A spacious park with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas, ideal for outdoor activities and gatherings.

Climate

Melville, NY experiences a temperate climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Melville are typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 23-30 degrees Celsius). Occasionally, temperatures can reach the 90s (30s Celsius) during heatwaves. Winters in Melville are cold, with temperatures ranging from the low 30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 0-8 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during the winter months, and the area can experience occasional winter storms.

Spring and fall in Melville are mild and pleasant. Spring temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 13-23 degrees Celsius), while fall temperatures range from the low 40s to the low 70s Fahrenheit (around 5-21 degrees Celsius). These seasons offer a mix of sunny, mild days and cooler, breezier periods.

Melville receives an average annual precipitation of around 44 inches (1,118 mm), with rainfall spread relatively evenly throughout the year. The wettest months tend to be May, July, August, and November.

Overall, Melville, NY experiences a mild-to-warm climate during the summer, a cold climate during the winter, and mild transitions through spring and fall.

Neighborhoods

Melville, NY is a suburb located in Suffolk County on Long Island. It is a primarily residential area, but it is also home to a number of businesses and commercial centers. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Melville:

Old Melville

This is the historic area of Melville, where you'll find some of the oldest homes and buildings. It has a charming small-town feel, with tree-lined streets and a sense of community.

Sweet Hollow

This neighborhood is located in the northern part of Melville and is known for its spacious homes and large properties. It offers a suburban lifestyle with a mix of newer developments and older, more established homes.

Country Woods

Situated in the southeastern part of Melville, Country Woods is an upscale neighborhood with luxurious homes and well-maintained landscapes. It offers a quieter and more secluded atmosphere, making it a desirable area for families.

Strathmore-Melville

This neighborhood is located in the southwestern part of Melville and is known for its diverse housing options. It offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, providing options for people of different preferences and budgets.

Villages of Melville

This is a planned community within Melville, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces. It includes a range of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses and condos. The community is designed to provide convenient amenities and a sense of community.

Farmingdale/Melville

This neighborhood is located on the border of Melville and Farmingdale and spans across both towns. It offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, providing easy access to amenities, restaurants, and shops.

Overall, Melville offers a variety of neighborhoods with different characteristics, ranging from historic areas with a small-town feel to more modern developments with luxury homes. It is a well-established community that provides a suburban lifestyle while still being within proximity to the amenities and attractions of Long Island.

Nearby Cities