summer colony
Warm-weather gathering place
A summer colony is a seasonal community where wealthy families traditionally gather during warm months, typically featuring clustered vacation homes in coastal or lakeside settings.
The term evokes old-money exclusivity—places like Martha's Vineyard or the Hamptons where the same families have summered for generations: The summer colony dates back to the 1890s.
The word colony suggests both shared territory and social insularity.
- garden partyOutdoor reception on grounds
- vacation homeDwelling for leisure travel
- coastal townSettlement along the shore
- lakefrontShore of inland water
- picnic basketContainer for outdoor meals
cottage · tourism industry · leisure class · yacht club · real estate market · boardwalk · gilded age · old money · social register · beach umbrella · seasonal employment · vacation rental · tennis court · art festival · gazebo · porch swing · screen door · historical preservation
summer colonyprimary residence
Main place of habitation
permanent residence · hometown · permanent home · native community
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