Selden

    The first settlers of the township of Brookhaven purchased the land (part of which comprises the current hamlet of Selden) from the Seatalcott Indians in1655. The land was obtained in exchange for 10 coats, 12 hoes, 12 hachets, 50 eel spears, 6 kettles, 10 fathom of wampum, 7 handfuls of powder, 1 pair of child's stockings, 12 pounds of lead and 12 knives. In colonial times, Selden was known as "Westfield".

    During the early 1800's, the cutting and hauling of cordwood was Westfield's primary industry. Around the mid 1800's, the cordwood industry declined and the town began farming comercially. Vegetables, melons, garden seeds and small fruits were grown and sold. It was at this time (1850's) that a problem arose in the delivery of mail. There were two towns with the name "Westfield" in New York State. The residents of Brookhaven Township's Westfield decided to rename the town "Selden" in honor of Judge Henry R. Selden. Although Judge Selden was known state-wide (he was luitenant governer from 1857-1858 and was the Chief Justice of the New York Court of Appeals), he is best remembered as the defense attorney for Susan B. Anthony's trial in 1873. (Anthony was on trial for voting in the election of 1872.)

    In the late 1890's, bicycling grew immensely popular. Bicycle Path in Selden was created as part of a 15 mile bicycle toll route. Licenses were necessary for the riders to use the path. In the early 1930's, busloads of interested buyers were transported to Selden from New York City because of advertisements offereing land for $19.00 per 1/4 to 1/2 acre lot. The lots were initially purchased for summer residences and later became year-round housing. During the 1960's, there was a housing boom on Long Island. Commercial buildings were exchanged for the farms which lined Middle Country Road and many new homes were built in the area.

    Additionally, Selden is the location of the Ammerman Campus of the Suffolk County Community College.

To get there: From the LIE, take Exit 62 north (also known as Route 97 or Nicholls Road). Head north about 3 miles to Route 25 east (also known as Middle Country Road). Head east on Middle Country Road about 1 1/2 miles to Boyle Road into the center of Selden.