Archives
Fire Island Pines People- Alexandra Akira
Alexandra Akira arrived on Fire Island at fourteen years old, she would soon call this magical wonderland her second home. A love affair with Fire Island that she carries to this day. The journey began while traveling out to Long Island from her home in Connecticut as a groupie for the rock band Twisted Sister as love of music is part of her story…
The Fresco / Doll House Est.1974
Fire Island Pines has always drawn designers of every kind, and sometimes they build their dream homes leaving behind their personal stamp on history…
The Dune House on Fire Island Est.1968-69
The Dune House, located on 4 Ocean Walk, is a quirky standout juxtaposed against modern houses on Fire Island Pines. This home was designed by bohemian boat builder, furniture designer, and architect, Peter Asher, and takes inspiration from the concrete structures by Spanish architect, Felix Candela.
Fire Island Art history -George Stavrinos
Many artists made their way to the Pines leaving their mark on history with their art. George Stavrinos is one. An incredible talented artist whose gift was fashion illustration.
Hollywood Shore Leave Party 1985-1994
Like many parties/ benefits throughout the 80’s they created a tradition that lasted through the years. Hollywood Shore Leave is one…
Once upon a time…Almost Summer: Donna Summer in the Pines…
Once upon a time there was a singer who helped to create a sound that defined an era. Her name was Donna Summer, and here is her story of how she almost played in the Pines…
Pines/ Cherry Grove People- Rose (Bob) Levine
Arriving in Cherry Grove in 1955 Bob Levine found home. A home for not only himself, but for Rose Levine the drag alter ego he created. Cherry Grove became his stage at the Arts Projects Community theater. He decided to cross the Meat Rack to the Pines and make a name for himself there also, and did…
Fire Island Fashion history- Photographer Arthur Elgort & Gia the first Super Model.
Many fashion photographers and models were here for the use of the Pines as a beautiful backdrop. Also for the fringe benefits of the party atmosphere. Such was the case with fashion photographer Arthur Elgort and one of the first super models simply known as Gia.
The Frank house Est.1958. / Boys in the sand house 1970
The Frank House designed by Andrew Geller Fire Island Pines, Fire Island, NY, 1958 Geller was inspired by the Franks’ pictures of the Mayan ruins at Uxmal Mexico to design this glazed pyramid, set among the rolling sand dunes. The result is a house sitting on one of the highest points in the Pines with panoramic views of the Atlantic ocean and the Great South Bay.
471 Fire Island Blvd Est.1980
Architecture and design have always been part of Fire Island Pines history. Horace Gifford, Scott Bromley just to name a couple of architects who have put their stamp on the Pines. However many designers like Michael Schaible and Robert Bray limited their skill to only their own residence, creating their own vision for themselves.
The TV house Est.1965.
There are many homes in the Pines of notoriety, with shapes from octagon to pyramid by important architects. However there is one that has become a favorite for its unique shape and history called the TV House…
From the Pines with Love 1985
With the advent of the AIDS crisis Pines business owner John Whyte felt the need for a community response. With co-chair Ron English, and using his sign off on his popular weekly column in Fire Island News “From the Pines with Love” was created.
Fire Island Pines People- Lance Ferris
After a visit in 1979 to Fire Island , a young Lance Ferris arrived on his own in 1980 fresh from Sheepshead Bay Brooklyn. Taking a guide book he got his ticket on the Long Island Railroad and made his way out to Sayville. There he boarded a ferry to Cherry Grove. He had been to all the bars in NYC including Ice Palace 57. At 17 he had just left High School and was determined to get a job bartending at the Ice Palace in Cherry Grove, and so he did…
Fire Island Music History- “Hold on to my Love.”
There are many anthems that bring you back to the time you first heard them, or the person or feeling you had at that moment. '“Hold on to my love” is one.
Pines People- Barbara Ross
Barbara Ross married to Sherwood Ross of the Ross Cycle family was a fixture in the Pines throughout the 1970’s and early 80’s. Her yacht the “Barbara” was moored at the Blue Whale where she could see and be seen.
Art History: Robert Mapplethorpe in the Pines
Robert Mapplethorpe first came to the Pines as many do: as the guest of a new lover with a summer share. Summers in Fire Island would introduce him to the famous people he always aspired to be around.
The Pyramid house Est.1960.
1960. There is a magical house at the eastern end section of the Pines called the Pyramid house as that is its shape. Designed by architect Julio Kaufman from Buenos Aires. Just one of the many unique homes here it boasts a spectacular view of the dunes and ocean upon entering…
The Pines Care Center Est. 1984
With being isolated on a island there was a need for medical aid in case of a accident or emergency. FIPPOA answered this call with the establishment of Pines Care Center in 1984.
The Parties of the Pines 1980’s
As the 1980’s era arrived the themed house party was in full force in the Pines where the access to creative was only a sequin away. The parties got bigger and so did the themes…
The Pavilion Est.1980-2004
It was the end of the golden age of the Pines. At the end of the 1979 season the beloved Sandpiper was being replaced by a new club called the Pavilion. It was an end of an era, and many in the community were not happy…