Its proximity to New York City facilitated the establishment of resort communities and then a post-war population boom .
Founded as a group of agricultural hamlets in the mid-17th century , Brookhaven first expanded as a major center of shipbuilding in the 19th century .
Brookhaven 's proximity to New York City facilitated the establishment of resort communities and then a post-war population boom .
Founded as a group of agricultural hamlets in the mid-17th century , Brookhaven first expanded as a major center of shipbuilding in the 19th century .