Uncovering the secrets of Brookhaven’s past in a new video series

Brookhaven Town Clerk Kevin LaValle has launched his “Talking History with the Town Clerk” video series, which features an in-depth tour of the Davis Meeting House, located in Coram.

This house served as the former clerk’s office during the early days of the Town of Brookhaven. The debut video features insights from town Historian Barbara Russell, who provides historical context about the landmark.

Constructed in the 1750s, the Davis House was owned for over 250 years by direct male descendants of Foulk Davis, who settled in Southampton in 1642. Historian Davis Erhardt identifies Elijah Davis (1727-1802) as the likely original owner, who operated the house as a tavern-inn.

By the 1790s, the house became the seat of the Town of Brookhaven government, for over 80 years. In the mid-1800s, it served as a temperance house and by 1890, it transitioned to a private residence.

The Brookhaven Town Board officially designated the Davis House as a landmark on April 15, 1986, recognizing its historical significance. It was named a New York State landmark in 2000 and a National Landmark in 2001.

Significant restoration work was completed in September 2012, including roof replacement, masonry repairs and the reconstruction of a timber-framed front porch. These efforts were part of a broader initiative to preserve the building’s historical character. Today, the Davis House functions as a vibrant community center, hosting various local events and programs.

The Davis Meeting House, located at 263 Middle Country Road in Coram, offers historical tours every second Sunday of the month. For more information, call 631-804-2256.