Smithtown

Smithtown
Town
Main Street in Smithtown Main Street in Smithtown
Flag of Smithtown Flag Official seal of Smithtown Seal
Nickname(s):  The Bull
Motto(s):  "Prosperitas in Excelsis" (Prosperity in Excellence)
Settled	1665
Incorporated (town)	1667
Government
• Type	Council-Manager
• Supervisor	Patrick R. Vecchio
Area
• Total	289 km2 (111.4 sq mi)
• Land	139 km2 (53.6 sq mi)
• Water	150 km2 (57.8 sq mi)
Elevation	40 m (131 ft)
Population  (2020)
• Total	117,801
• Density	848.8/km2 (2,198.5/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
Website	www.smithtownny.gov

Smithtown is a town located in Suffolk County, New York, United States. It is situated on the north shore of Long Island and is part of the New York metropolitan area. The town was settled in 1665 and incorporated in 1667. Smithtown covers a total area of 111.4 square miles, with 53.6 square miles of land and 57.8 square miles of water. As of the 2020 census, the town had a population of 117,801, making it one of the largest towns in Suffolk County.

History

Smithtown was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Secatogue and Matinecock tribes. The town was settled by Europeans in 1665 when Richard Smith, Sr. purchased the land from the Native Americans. Smithtown was named after Richard Smith, Sr., who played a significant role in the town's early development.

During the American Revolution, Smithtown was a center of activity, with both British and American forces occupying the area at different times. The town played a crucial role in the Culper Spy Ring, a network of American spies who provided valuable intelligence to General George Washington.

Geography

Smithtown is located on the north shore of Long Island, approximately 50 miles east of Manhattan. The town is bordered by the towns of Huntington to the west, Islip to the south, and Brookhaven to the east. The Long Island Sound forms the northern boundary of the town.

The town is known for its diverse geography, which includes rolling hills, forests, and beautiful beaches. Smithtown is home to several parks and nature preserves, including Caleb Smith State Park Preserve and Blydenburgh County Park.

Government

Smithtown operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The town is governed by a Town Board, consisting of the Supervisor and four Council members. The Supervisor is the chief executive officer of the town and is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations.

The current Supervisor of Smithtown is Patrick R. Vecchio, who has held the position since 1978. Vecchio is the longest-serving Supervisor in the history of New York State.

Economy

Smithtown has a diverse economy, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The town is home to several major corporations, including Canon USA, which has its headquarters in Melville, a hamlet within Smithtown.

The town also has a thriving small business community, with numerous shops, restaurants, and professional services. Smithtown's Main Street is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of shopping and dining options.

Education

Smithtown is served by the Smithtown Central School District, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the town. The district is known for its high academic standards and has consistently ranked among the top school districts in New York State.

In addition to public schools, Smithtown is home to several private schools, including St. Patrick School and Smithtown Christian School.

Notable People

Smithtown has been home to many notable individuals throughout its history. Some of the town's most famous residents include:

• William Levitt, real estate developer and founder of Levitt & Sons
• Pat LaFontaine, former professional ice hockey player
• Craig Biggio, former professional baseball player
• Alec Baldwin, actor and producer

External links

• Official website
• Smithtown Library