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Long Island philanthropist Ward
Melville built Old Field Farm, originally known as the North
Shore Horse Show Grounds, in 1931. Melville commissioned
architect Richard Haviland Smythe to create a unique
equestrian facility located on a distinctive waterfront
setting on Long Island’s North Shore. The stable complex is
composed a Main Barn and courtyard, numerous free standing
stables and a large Old Fashioned wooden grandstand, all
designed in the Colonial Revival style.
The Farm is located on 13 scenic acres
in the historic Three Village area adjoining 88 acres of
protected wetlands overlooking Long Island Sound on the
north and the West Meadow Creek wetlands to the south -- an
area which has been designated “outstanding natural coastal
area” (ONCA) by New York State. Long Island artists have
found inspiration for their award-winning works in the
Farm’s remarkable combination of man-made and natural
beauty.
In its day, this extraordinary facility
was considered unparalleled for horse sports (The North
Shore Horse Show). For over half a century it attracted
thousands of riders and spectators to high-quality
equestrian competitions, many of which were successful
charitable fund-raisers. Privately owned until 1986, the
Farm was acquired by the County to prevent commercial
sale of the property or possible subdivision and
development. During this period the facility stood vacant
and continued to deteriorate. The County initiated a search
to identify an appropriate entity to take on an extensive
restoration required and manage Old Field Farm and return
this prized local institution to its rightful place in the
community. |
