Governor’s Island – New York City, New York
The closest land to the Statue of Liberty is Governor’s Island which was home to a military base where you will have the opportunity to explore the architecture of the old military base while being on the island. The modern buildings that have been built in more recent times are slowly being demolished to protect the historic site. You also have a great view of the Statue of Liberty from the island.
The island is located at the confluence of the Hudson and East Rivers on the southern tip of Manhattan. The island’s fortifications, Fort Jay and Castle Williams, were early outposts built to protect New York City from enemy naval attacks.
Governor’s Island was the command headquarters and military post for the United States Army from 1784 until 1966, for the next 30 years it was the U.S. Coast Guard’s largest and most complex installation.
The island was sold and transferred in 2003 to two parties: 22 acres, designated as the Governors Island National Monument, to the Secretary of the Interior, and managed by the National Park Service; and 150 acres to the Governors Island Preservation and Education Corporation (GIPEC) , a corporation formed jointly by the State and City of New York.
Some interesting facts about life on the island in the 1800’s include the pay rate for a private stationed on the island in 1814 would have earned about $8 a month! Did you know that approximately two-thirds of he army musicians stationed on Governors Island in the second half of the 19th century were below the age of 21? In 1860, nearly half of the enlisted men stationed on Governors Island had immigrated to New York from either Ireland or Germany. Immigrants also took their first jobs “off the boat” as maids and servants in the officers’ homes on the island.
During the Civil War Castle Williams’ was used as a prison first for Confederate prisoners of war and later as a military stockade for the US Army. Once e Governors Island became a headquarters, officers were able to bring their families to live on the island. The National Historic Landmark District is dotted with community structures which include a movie theatre, YMCA, Officer’s Club, public school and three religious chapels, a quiet neighborhood not far from the hustle and bustle of New York City life.
Today Governor’s Island is a wonderful place to visit. The ferry to the island is free as is entrance to the island. Come and enjoy the beauty of this unique location. A variety of National Park Ranger led programs, self-guided activities and lecture series are offered throughout the open season. Joining a park ranger or National Park volunteer is an excellent way to learn more about the history of Governors Island.
Governor’s Island is open from the end of May until the middle of October. Take the ferry to get to the island. The ferry departs Lower Manhattan, on Saturday and Sunday the Ferry leaves the Brooklyn Bridge Park.
The following are not permitted on Governors Island: pets, alcohol, controlled substances, weapons or explosives.
Visitors are also not permitted to cook on Governors Island or swim in New York Harbor.
Limited leisure bicycling is permitted only on designated paths and in designated areas of the Island. All bicyclists shall cycle at their own risk and comply with all of GIPEC’s bicycle rules. Speed limits are enforced.
Biking is not permitted at Soisson’s Dock, Nolan Park or inside Fort Jay.
All visitors and packages are subject to search. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. GIPEC and its agents reserve the right to deny access to the Island at their discretion.
Fishing is permitted on Governors Island in the designated area along the western promenade. Fishing is catch and release ONLY.
To get more information on the scheduling of visits to the island call 212.825.3045 Wednesday – Sunday.
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