About
Our History
Nearly a century ago, the residents of the hamlets of Mattituck and Laurel (within Southold Town) were concerned about potential riparian development and the loss of access to the beaches and shore. In 1924 they petitioned the State for the formation of a park district within the Town of Southold to acquire lands for park purposes. Later, in 1941 the Mattituck Park District was created by an act of the New York State Legislature, by repealing the prior act and formally creating the MPD as a special municipality.
The Park District owns 63 acres of properties, situated between Great Peconic Bay and the Long Island Sound. They include beaches, parks, a boat ramp, wetlands, lakes, and athletic fields. They are the private property of the District residents.
Centuries ago, Mattituck and Laurel were inhabited by Algonquins. The name Mattituck translates from the Algonquin as “land of few trees" and also as “great creek”. These names are suitable, since salt marshes cover the areas around Mattituck Creek and the Park District owns the lands on both sides of the Mattituck Inlet.
The mission of the Park District—continuing the vision commenced by its founders—is to protect, preserve, and enhance our resources for its residents and for future generations, while maintaining the rural character of the community and the preservation of open space.
The Park District is governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners which meets twice a month on Thursdays at 6.00PM. The first Thursday is a Work Session and the third Thursday of the month is a Regular Meeting. The public is always welcome to attend. Please contact the office if you wish to make an appointment to speak at a Regular Meeting.