Westhampton's William G. Hentschel Insurance Agency Marks 100 Years

WESTHAMPTON, NY — It's been a journey of love and dedication for a Westhampton family whose business celebrates 100 years in 2023.

The William G. Hentschel Agency Inc., an insurance firm, was started in 1923 by her grandfather, Terrie Bauer, who now runs the company, said.

Located at 117 Montauk Highway, the agency has long been a beloved mainstay on the Westhampton canvas.

The agency itself was born in Rego Park, Queens, "in the house my dad was born in," Bauer said. "In 1958, he moved our family to Massapequa and the business remained there until 1979, when my grandmother passed away and my dad decided to sell everything and move to Westhampton."

Bauer spoke to an industry that's evolved significantly over decades. "The business was fairly simple back then, but has changed — and hardened the past 15 years or so," she said.

Her father, also William, took over the insurance agency when her grandfather decided to go into real estate in Westhampton in 1958, Bauer said.

"My grandfather had an extremely successful run with real estate out here. He started the concept of group rentals and all of the agents who started with him became extremely successful themselves," she said.

Despite challenges over the years, the William G. Hentschel Agency has an array of customers who've been loyal for more than 50 years, Bauer said.

"It is extremely gratifying that I can help customers who I knew as a child and are still with me," she said.

Some of her most cherished memories, Bauer said, include going to work as a child with her father. "Seeing my dad William and mom Grace help so many people in stressful situations. And working with my parents until they retired," she said.

The business has long been a family affair, she added. "My children both worked off and on through high school and college," she said, adding that they've moved on to follow their own dreams.

Her grandchildren, Carter and Delancy, are the fifth generation to make memories in their Westhampton home.

"Westhampton," Bauer noted, "has grown and changed so much since we moved the business here."

When asked what sage words are the secrets to reaching 100 years in business, a centennial anniversary, Bauer reflected: "The best piece of advice is a tough question. Work hard, I guess. Know your customers and make sure they are the most important."

As for her favorite memories, Bauer said it was hard to choose. "I have been working here since 1980 — so that’s a lot of memories."

Her family will host a small dinner party in April to mark the 100-year anniversary, Bauer said.

Bauer, who is beginning to consider retirement, said she and her husband Fred, who both own the agency — although he works elsewhere — are in talks with some individuals who are interested in taking the reins.

"This business is everything to me," Bauer said. "As I near retirement I often think about what I will do, but my family and this business mean the most, so we will see."

For now, no passing of the torch is planned. But when that time comes, Bauer said, "I hope the new owners will care for my customers as I did — and my parents did."

Most important, she said, "The business will go on."