Historic Turkey Hill in Sag Harbor Village

Early in the morning of July 11th, 1813, Captain Henry Green of the American militia peered out into the darkness of the harbor from his post on the wharf at Sag Harbor. Spying an incoming vessel, Green called out for identification and, hearing no reply, fired upon one of the five barges approaching the Village with a full complement of British soldiers. The United States and Great Britain were already deep in the conflict that would become known as The War of 1812 and the British had set their eyes on taking the strategically-located port for a prize.

On the highest point of the Village, known as Turkey Hill, a fort of stone and timber construction had been established a few years prior and was manned by a force consisting of the Fourth Regiment of the New York Artillery and local militia volunteers under the command of Major John Jermain. From such a high vantage point, the soldiers in the fort had an excellent view of the Village, as well as the harbor beyond, and were well-positioned to defend both with their 9- and 18-pound cannons. Throughout that morning in 1813, the citizens of Sag Harbor defended their homes valiantly and succeeded in driving off the invasion force of British Marines, with no lives lost in the melee. In the summer of 2013, a memorial was erected at the site of the fort on High Street to commemorate the participants of the battle 200 years ago.

While the fort is long gone, the vantage point from Turkey Hill is still special today. Overlooking the site of the old fort, a recently renovated 1900 classic village house has hit the bustling Sag Harbor real estate market just in time for the summer rush. Listed by Lawrence Ingolia and Jonathan Smith of Sotheby’s International Realty, the designer home mixes wonderfully preserved historic details with the sophistication of California Minimalism (the furniture, including pieces from Clic, Laurin Copin and Elizabeth Dow, is available to be included in the sale). Inspired by the work of California designer Amber Lewis, the interiors present an airy and open flow, with unique details such as copper sheet countertops, mint green appliances and a charming princess’ bedroom on the finished third floor. Five bedrooms offer plenty of opportunity to host summer guests in style.

Outside, there are plenty of garden spots in which to retreat with a book and the expansive deck and bluestone patio lend themselves to outdoor dining and entertaining. A newly planted magnolia colonnade leads to “Le Rose de 34 Bis,” a rose-covered cottage perfectly suited as a home office or artist’s studio.

Steeped in history and charm, and listed for $4.2 million, this cozy retreat represents one of the best opportunities currently available in the Sag Harbor Historic District.

Lawrence Ingolia, Lic. Associate RE Broker 
M: 516.607.8800

Jonathan Smith, Lic. RE Salesperson
M: 917.714.9022