Fact Sheet: Governors Island National Monument

A Silent Sentinel in New York Harbor

Established: January 19, 2001

Overview: Governors Island’s fortifications were an integral part of the former harbor defense system of New York, dating back to the War of 1812. Today, the National Monument offers visitors an important look at the area’s military history and impressive period architecture, as well as incredible views of the New York skyline.

From 1776-1996, Governors Island stood as a silent sentinel in New York Harbor, and provided protection of the ideals represented by the Statue of Liberty across the bay. Castle Williams was built between 1807 -1811. Construction of the walls and gate of the existing Fort Jay were completed in 1808 to replace a series of earthen forts built in 1776 and 1794. Castle Williams was designed and erected under Colonel Jonathan Williams, Chief Engineer of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the first Superintendent of West Point. Considered by some the Alcatraz of the East Coast, Castle Williams served as a prison for Confederate soldiers from 1862 – 1866. The U.S. Army ceased operations there in 1966 and turned the island over to the Coast Guard, which closed its facilities on the island in 1997. In 2003, the federal government returned Governors Island to New York State and City. GIPEC now owns 150 acres of the island and the other 22 acres are administered by NPS.

The City’s first project includes creating a 72 to 87 acre mega-park along the southwestern end of the island, giving the public the most direct view by land of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.

Activities/Tours: The island is open 7 days a week from May 1st to October 31st for self-guided tours. Summer events include a Family Festival with arts, crafts, music and theatre, and Army Heritage Days, which includes reenactments and tours highlighting the military history of the island. The island also offers a wide range of recreational activities from bicycling and running to bird watching and painting in plain air. There is plenty to do during your visit.

Transportation: From Manhattan - Ferries run daily from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South St. From Brooklyn - Ferries run Saturdays and Sundays from both Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin in Red Hook

Visitor Information: [phone]

Web Site: www.nps.gov/gois