Built in 1784, Clinton Academy was one of the first academies chartered by the Board of Regents in New York State. Reverend Samuel Buell of the East Hampton Presbyterian Church asked locals to donate money to construct the late-Georgian building. Co-educational, boys were schooled for careers, while girls were given classes in etiquette and spiritual reading. It was later a community center and a playhouse, held the town offices and even the local newspaper. The East Hampton Historical Society oversees the historic site, which now hosts exhibitions and lectures. The Mimi Meehan Native Plant Garden, between the Clinton Academy and its neighbor, The East Hampton Star, is open year-round. The Garden Club of East Hampton tends to the small garden.