Picture a glacial boulder. This colossal rock Shelter Rock stands as a silent testament to the Ice Age. It’s right here in the Village of North Hills a landmark that predates the village itself.
The Village of North Hills a charming community on Long Island’s North Shore boasts a rich history. Its story is woven into the fabric of Long Island’s past from Native American settlements to grand estates. It’s a story of glacial formations and the evolution of a tax haven.
Thousands of years ago the Matinecock Native Americans called this area home. They built a village near what is now the southern end of North Hills. Later European settlers arrived establishing farms and cultivating the land. One prominent family the Willets owned one of the largest farms. I.U. Willets Road still bears their name. The Village of North Hills wasn’t officially incorporated until 1929. This was a strategic move designed to prevent tax increases and secure local control. The hilly terrain and northern location inspired its name.
The 20th century saw the rise of lavish estates. The Vanderbilts the Pulitzers and the Whitneys all owned properties here. The Village of North Hills became a symbol of Long Island’s Gilded Age. Its history is dotted with stories of magnificent mansions and exclusive country clubs. The Deepdale Golf Club once faced a controversial eminent domain dispute. The mayor attempted to acquire the club for the sole use of residents. Deepdale however successfully fought this action. The club remains a private entity.
Lowell H Kane Park dedicated in 1983 serves as a community space. This village park is a reminder of the community spirit that exists amidst the grandeur of North Hills. The Village of North Hills isn’t just about exclusive estates. It also has a blend of public and private schools nearby. The Great Neck Herricks Manhasset and Roslyn school districts serve North Hills students. The Buckley Country Day School is a private option.
Transportation is served by major highways including the Long Island Expressway and the Northern State Parkway. There is a village-run commuter shuttle for residents adding a layer of convenience to this unique Long Island community. The Village of North Hills maintains a complex system of roads. Most roads are privately owned and maintained. Public services include connections to Nassau County’s sewer and water districts. PSEG Long Island and National Grid serve the electricity and natural gas needs.
Today the Village of North Hills retains its upscale character. It’s a blend of history and modern living. A place where glacial boulders meet grand estates. A community rich in stories. A hidden gem on Long Island’s North Shore.