Brookville, New York
Brookville, located in the Town of Oyster Bay on Nassau County’s North Shore, is one of Long Island’s most prestigious communities. With its winding roads, rolling woodlands, and grand estates, Brookville is often considered part of the historic “Gold Coast,” where wealthy families of the Gilded Age established lavish country homes. Many of these properties remain, and their influence can still be felt in the character of the village today.
History and Gold Coast Heritage
The area that would become Brookville was originally farmland and pasture during colonial times. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it attracted wealthy industrialists, financiers, and socialites who built sprawling mansions on vast acreage. Some of these estates were designed by noted architects and landscaped by leading figures like the Olmsted Brothers. This heritage has given Brookville its reputation for seclusion, beauty, and architectural significance.
Education and Culture
Brookville is perhaps best known for LIU Post (Long Island University’s C.W. Post Campus), which sits on the former estate of cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. The campus covers over 300 acres of lawns, gardens, and historic buildings, and it serves as a cultural center for the region. The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, plays, and lectures, while the campus itself includes museums and arboretums open to the public.
The village is served by multiple highly regarded school districts, including Jericho, East Williston, and Locust Valley, further boosting its desirability for families.
Lifestyle and Community
Brookville maintains a semi-rural charm despite its proximity to New York City. Equestrian trails wind through the area, and horseback riding remains a popular activity. Country clubs, golf courses, and private recreational facilities offer residents exclusive opportunities for leisure. Strict zoning and large lot sizes help preserve the open character of the community, ensuring that Brookville retains its quiet, estate-like feel.
Landmarks and Nearby Attractions
- Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park – Once the estate of William Robertson Coe, this nearby site is one of the few remaining intact Gold Coast estates open to the public.
- Old Westbury Gardens – A short drive away, this mansion and gardens provide another glimpse into Long Island’s Gilded Age.
- Historic Estates – Brookville is home to numerous private mansions that contribute to its prestige and character.
Quick Facts: Brookville, NY
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | North Shore, Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County |
| Population | Approx. 3,500 residents |
| Character | Exclusive residential community, Gold Coast heritage |
| Education | Served by Jericho, East Williston, and Locust Valley districts; LIU Post |
| Cultural Centers | Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, campus museums at LIU Post |
| Lifestyle | Equestrian culture, country clubs, golf, large wooded estates |
| Nearby Attractions | Planting Fields Arboretum, Old Westbury Gardens, Roslyn Harbor |
Brookville, New York, remains a living symbol of Long Island’s Gold Coast legacy. Its combination of wooded landscapes, historic mansions, and cultural institutions make it one of the most exclusive addresses in the region. With world-class performances, educational institutions, and preserved natural beauty at its doorstep, Brookville balances tradition and modern luxury, offering a refined quality of life that continues to attract residents seeking privacy, prestige, and history.
