Happy TravellerWelcome to Selden, a charming hamlet located in the Town of Brookhaven in Suffolk County, New York. With a population of 19,851 at the 2010 census, Selden is a small but vibrant community with a rich history and plenty of modern amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Selden has something to offer everyone. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this hidden gem such a special destination.
History:
Selden has a fascinating history that dates back to the mid-18th century. The area was originally known as Westfield and was home to a small farming community. One of the most famous early residents was Captain Daniel Roe, who fought in both the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War. Roe built a house in Selden before the Revolutionary War and is buried in a small family cemetery south of Middle Country Road. Selden was also home to a school district and a Presbyterian church in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, the Suffolk County Tuberculosis Sanatorium opened in Selden and later became the main campus of Suffolk County Community College.
Geography:
Selden is located in the heart of Suffolk County and is bordered by Coram, Farmingville, Centereach, and Terryville. The hamlet has a total area of 4.3 square miles, all of which is land. Selden is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, lakes, and hiking trails.
Demographics:
As of the census of 2000, there were 21,861 people, 6,809 households, and 5,522 families residing in Selden. The population density was 4,695.5 per square mile. The racial makeup of the hamlet was 91.96% White, 1.88% African American, 0.19% Native American, 2.46% Asian, and 1.78% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8.23% of the population.
Schools:
Selden is home to several excellent schools, including Bicycle Path, Hawkins Path Elementary, New Lane Elementary, Newfield High School, Selden Middle School, and Stagecoach Elementary. The hamlet is also home to Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman Campus, which has an enrollment of over 11,000 students.
Things to Do:
Selden has plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. One of the most popular destinations is the Middle Country Public Library, which offers a wide range of books, movies, and other resources. Selden is also home to several beautiful parks, including the Selden Dog Park, which is a great place to take your furry friends. If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, head to the nearby Bald Hill Cultural Center, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. And if you’re a foodie, be sure to check out some of Selden’s excellent restaurants, which serve up everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.
Commercial Development:
Selden’s main thoroughfare is New York State Route 25, also known as Middle Country Road. The road is home to several shopping centers, including the Westfield Shopping Center, College Plaza, and Selden Plaza. In 1992, a new major shopping center, Independence Plaza, opened at the northwest corner of Middle Country and Boyle Roads, adjacent to College Plaza. This has significantly increased the popularity of Downtown Selden in the past few years attracting more local and national chain businesses.
Conclusion:
Selden may be a small hamlet, but it has a lot to offer visitors. From its rich history to its beautiful natural landscapes and modern amenities, Selden is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So why not plan a trip to Selden today and discover all that this charming hamlet has to offer?
