Did you know that the first Long Islanders were Native American? They inhabited Long Island for more than 9,000 years.
The tribe was Algonquin. They lived in about a dozen communities across the island. They were more or less peaceful. You may recognize some of their leader names - Wyandanch who was the leader of the "Montauks" - Tackapausha lead the "Massapequas" - other names of tribes you might recognize: Canarsie, Rockaway, Matinecock, Merrick, Nissequoge, Secatoag, Seatauket, Patchoag, Corchaug, Shinnecock, Manhasset.
One noteworthy Native American Long Islander - Stephen Talkhouse (Stephen Taukus “Talkhouse” Pharaoh) was a Montauk Native American best known for his daily round trip walks from Montauk to East Hampton- Landmarks along the route have now been named after him. One such being the well known nightclub.
You can see what's left of his home and his grave at the Theodore Roosevelt County Park in Montauk - Phone: (631) 852-7878 Website: www.co.suffolk.ny.us/.
There are some Native Americans still living on Long Island living in our two Native American reservations -- Possepatuck reservation located in Mastic and Shinnecock Reservation in Southampton. On Labor Day the Shinnecocks welcome visitors to their reservation for a celebration.
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