Two historic buildings namely the Joshua Hempsted House and the Nathaniel Hempsted House make up the now famous Hempstead Houses. Joshua Hempsted House being older is most documented 17th-century house in America. The house was inhabited by Joshua Hempsted right from childhood till his death. The house is thus replete with a rich history that concerns the colonial age and also throws light on the abolitionist movement. The Nathaniel Hempsted House was built in 1758 by Joshua Hempsted for his grandson Nathaniel. The Hempstead Houses is a property of the Antiquarian & Landmarks Society. Normal tours will resume in May 2010; however, tours by appointment are still carried out.