Bordered on the south by the Atlantic Ocean and on the north by Long Island Sound, the Peconic Bay region, including the North and South Forks, has only recently been recognized for its environmental and economic significance. The story of the waterway and its contiguous land masses is one of farmers and fishermen, sailing vessels and submarines, wealthy elite residents, and award winning vineyards.

"Peconic Bay" examines the past 400 years of the region's history, tracing the growth of the fishing industry, the rise of tourism, and the impact of a military presence in the wake of...