On Sunday, February 19, at 2:30 p.m., The Friends of the Montauk Library and The Montauk Historical Society will present a screening of the documentary “Leisurama,” a 2005 film written and directed by Jake Gorst. A discussion led by Mia Certic, director of the Montauk Historical Society, will follow.
The Leisurama concept began with a model home first displayed at the American National Exhibit in Moscow in 1959 — the site of the famous “kitchen debate” between Krushchev and Nixon. During the Cold War, the homes came to be regarded as symbols of the quality of life enjoyed by the average American. In the mid-1960s these inexpensive houses could be purchased through Macy’s department stores. The original homes came fully furnished with sofas and beds, linens, cookware, and flatware. The starting price was less than $14,000. Today over 200 Leisurama houses form part of Montauk’s Culloden Shores neighborhood. The film, “Leisurama” is not available for streaming, so this is a rare opportunity to see it.
The screening at Montauk Library is free and open to the public. Register at the circulation desk or call 631-668-3377. Montauk Library is at 871 Montauk Highway. For more information, visit montauklibrary.org.
Staff Writer on Feb 12, 2023