124-611: The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center , known as The Kate, is a performing arts center in Old Saybrook, Connecticut that opened in 2009. It is named for Katharine Hepburn , the 4-time Academy Award winning actress and Old Saybrook's most celebrated resident. The Kate is a non-profit performing arts organization located in a historic theater/town hall on Main Street in Old Saybrook. Originally opened in 1911 and listed on
248-519: A caretaker detachment to jointly maintain the island with the General Services Administration (GSA) while its future was determined. Other federal agencies were loath to take control of the island. Upon the announcement of the base's closure in 1995, President Bill Clinton offered to give up the island for $ 1 if Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Governor George Pataki could agree to reserve the island for public use. The city
372-411: A 104-man regiment on Noten Eylandt, and later commandeered the island for his personal use. He secured his farm by drawing up a deed on June 16, 1637, which was signed by two Lenape leaders, Cacapeteyno and Pewihas, on behalf of their community at Keshaechquereren, situated in present-day New Jersey. Van Twiller cultivated a farm on the island, even building a windmill on the land, until he returned to
496-652: A Coast Guard base. At that point, most of the World War II-era buildings on the island's southern tip were still standing. The Coast Guard consolidated its operations at Governors Island, making the island the Coast Guard's largest installation. The island was used as a base of operations for the Atlantic Area Command and its regional Third District command. By 1985, the island had a population of 4,000 personnel and 1,000 family members. It
620-457: A South Battery community garden; golf links; and a promenade for bicycling. A cemetery was also present on the island, and initially hosted yellow fever and cholera victims, but interments were halted in 1878 and all of the remains were moved to Cypress Hills Cemetery in Brooklyn by 1886. The secluded ambiance of Governors Island was altered somewhat when the first solid waste incinerator in
744-578: A bridge across the harbor, but the War Department quashed the plan, calling it a possible navigational threat to the Brooklyn Navy Yard located upriver. A subsequent plan to build a ramp from Governors Island to the bridge was rejected as well. The Brooklyn–Battery Tunnel opened to traffic in 1950 without any other physical connection to the island. In 1963, Department of Defense Secretary Robert S. McNamara started studying
868-489: A casino and hotel on Governors Island. Other plans entailed preserving the island as a museum; converting it into a public park; establishing a free-trade zone ; and building an educational campus, a prison, an amusement park, a golf courses, or even a nightclub district. In 1996, the Van Alen Institute hosted an ideas competition called "Public Property", attracting over 200 submissions. An agreement between
992-523: A derelict motel. In April 2010, the city took control of the island's development, and GIPEC was succeeded by the Trust for Governors Island. The city also unveiled a new master development plan that preserved the historic north end of Governors Island, developed the middle and southern portions of the island as a park, and reserved the western and eastern sections for private development. The administration of Mayor Michael Bloomberg had provided funding for
1116-583: A fire and police department, banks, stores, churches, an elementary school, a movie theater, a motel, a bowling alley , and a Burger King fast-food restaurant. During this time, several notable events took place at Governors Island. During Liberty Weekend in 1986, President Ronald Reagan traveled to the island for a ceremony to relight the Statue of Liberty upon completion of the statue's restoration . On December 8, 1988, Reagan and President-elect George Bush met with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev on
1240-458: A high school focused on maritime vocational education; and QC NY, a destination day spa . In October 2019, city officials proposed constructing a climate change research center on the island. In March 2020, the Trust for Governors Island issued a Request for Proposals seeking arts and culture organizations to become year-round tenants in two historic buildings in Nolan Park. During 2020, as
1364-486: A joint city-state agency, the Governors Island Preservation and Education Corporation (GIPEC). The transfer included deed restrictions which prohibit permanent housing or casinos on the island. The agreements also stipulated that 40 acres (16 ha) of land had to be used as parkland, and another 50 acres (20 ha) had to be used for "educational, civic or cultural" purposes. In practice,
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#17327839216601488-560: A layer of riprap to better mitigate wave action. A 2023 study found that Governors Island was sinking at a rate of about 3.4 ± 0.8 millimeters (0.134 ± 0.031 in) per year, making it among the fastest-sinking locations in New York City. This is mainly because the southern part of the island was created through land reclamation. Several fortifications were built on Governors Island to protect New York Harbor. These worked in conjunction with Castle Clinton at
1612-401: A major program to build several mostly Georgian revival structures on Governors Island. The new structures included a movie theater , a YMCA , an "officer's club", and a public school . The three-story Liggett Hall (also known as Building 400), a military barracks spanning nearly the entire width of the original island, was built on the site of former World War I warehouses, and was one of
1736-534: A map of possible locations for the First System of fortifications to protect major American urban centers. Governors Island was one of the first locations where defenses were built. As such, the agreement with the Board of Regents was voided in 1794, and some $ 250,000 in federal funding was allocated to the construction of defenses on Governors Island in 1794 and 1795. Fort Jay was built starting in 1794 on
1860-542: A meaningful and inspiring tribute to our Connecticut treasure, Katharine Hepburn." The building was designed by New London architect James Sweeney , and "is a fine example of the Colonial Revival Style ." The general contractor was William L. Roe Jr., also of New London. Old Saybrook, Connecticut Old Saybrook is a town in Middlesex County, Connecticut , United States. The town
1984-400: A median income of $ 48,527 versus $ 36,426 for females. The per capita income for the town was $ 30,720. About 1.5% of families and 4.5% of the population were below the poverty line , including 1.9% of those under age 18 and 9.7% of those age 65 or over. Old Saybrook's train station opened in 1873 and was rebuilt in 2002. Amtrak , the national rail passenger system, provides daily service along
2108-467: A military base, there were several plans for redeveloping Governors Island. It was sold to the public for a nominal sum in 2003, and opened for public use in 2005. Governors Island has become a popular destination for the public, attracting more than 800,000 visitors per year as of 2018. In addition to the 43-acre (17 ha) public park, Governors Island includes free arts and cultural events, as well as recreational activities. The New York Harbor School ,
2232-600: A new potable water connection (which replaced a locally illegal connection from the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel) as well as repairs to the seawall. The 6-acre (2.4 ha) Liggett Terrace courtyard was built in 2014, as was Hammock Grove and a new play structure. The Oyster Pavilion opened in June 2015, followed by the 10-acre (4.0 ha) Hills section of the park in July 2016. The island became more popular over
2356-551: A point that they were replaced in 1806. Fort Jay was initially named for New York governor John Jay , but after being rebuilt, was known as Fort Columbus until about 1904. The rebuilt fort, which reused the original glacis and many of the original walls, comprised "an enclosed pentagonal work, with four bastions of masonry, calculated for one hundred guns", and initially included a 230-person brick barracks. Though Fort Jay has been renovated multiple times throughout its history, its current appearance largely stems from renovations in
2480-404: A proposal by Center for Urban Real Estate (CURE) at Columbia University to physically connect Manhattan to Governors Island using landfill. A proposal to convert Castle Williams into a theater in the style of London's Globe Theatre was designed by architect Norman Foster in 2005, but was deemed unsuitable for the castle's design. Additionally, in 2008, there were unrealized plans to relocate
2604-495: A public high school with a maritime-focused curriculum, has been on the island since 2010. The island can only be accessed by ferries from Brooklyn and Manhattan, and there are no full-time residents as of 2022 . It was accessible to the public only during the summer until 2021, when the island started operating year-round. The Native Lenape refer to the island as Paggank, Pagganck , or Pagganack. All of these names literally translate to "Nut Island", likely in reference to
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#17327839216602728-479: A result of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City , the island opened two months later than usual, and a timed ticketing system limited daily visitation to 5,000. In September 2021, mayor Bill de Blasio announced that the island would operate year-round rather than from May through October. Though there were no full-time residents at the time, the Trust for Governors Island started expanding nighttime access to
2852-489: A single house and pasture to be used by colonial governors for raising sheep, cattle, and horses. The British started calling Nutten Island "Governor's Island" (with an apostrophe) in 1698 and reserved the island for the exclusive use of colonial governors. Four years later, when Edward Hyde, Lord Cornbury took office as New York colonial governor, he built a mansion on Governor's Island, though evidence of this mansion no longer exists. Later, governor William Cosby used
2976-462: A small Gothic Revival chapel for Protestants was built on Governors Island in 1846. No new permanent buildings were built specifically for the Civil War, though a temporary hospital was built. The hospital treated victims of cholera and yellow fever in epidemics during the 1850s and 1860s. During the war, Governors Island was used mostly as a support facility to muster soldiers, though
3100-467: A war with France, but the fortifications were never built. The island was first used by a military encampment in 1755 during the French and Indian War , when Sir William Pepperell led the 51st Regiment of Foot onto Governor's Island. Other regiments soon followed, and by the mid-1760s, there was documentation of a fort on the island as well as several surrounding earthworks. Further plans to improve
3224-511: Is also known as The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and Theater . The 285-seat theater had the blessing of the Hepburn Estate and the actress's family. Cynthia McFadden of ABC News , an executor of the Hepburn Estate, was an honorary capital campaign committee member. Hepburn's brother-in-law, Ellsworth Grant, was instrumental in helping the Board of Trustees honor the actress with his knowledge of Hepburn and her family. Grant
3348-604: Is home to a district educational system. Kathleen E. Goodwin School is for prekindergarten through grade 4, Old Saybrook Middle School is for grades 5 through 8, and Old Saybrook Senior High School is for grades 9 through 12. The high school competes in the Shoreline Conference . In 2018 and 2019, the boys' soccer team won back-to-back state championships . Old Saybrook is also home to prekindergarten through grade 8 at St John's Catholic School, and toddler–grade 6 at
3472-593: Is licensed to Old Saybrook: WLIS AM 1420 (variety). The town is also covered by Shore Publishing and the local newspaper the Harbor News . Governors Island Governors Island is a 172-acre (70 ha) island in New York Harbor , within the New York City borough of Manhattan . It is located approximately 800 yards (730 m) south of Manhattan Island, and is separated from Brooklyn to
3596-536: Is part of the Lower Connecticut River Valley Planning Region . The population was 10,481 at the 2020 census . It contains the incorporated borough of Fenwick , and the census-designated places of Old Saybrook Center and Saybrook Manor . In 1624, shortly after establishing their first settlement at Governors Island , Dutch settlers established a short-lived factory at present-day Old Saybrook. The trading post
3720-664: Is sometimes mentioned as the location of the United States' first overt military action during the war, on April 6, 1917, when troops from the island captured German vessels in New York Harbor minutes after the U.S. Congress declared war on Germany. Barracks, tents, and temporary wooden buildings were built on the original northern portion of the island, while the new southern section housed warehouses and other ancillary facilities which collectively stored $ 75 million worth of material. The structures were all connected by
3844-476: Is the broad transition zone where so-called "subtropical indicator" plants and other broadleaf evergreens can successfully be cultivated. Old Saybrook averages about 90 days annually with freeze (temperatures of 32 °F/0 °C) – about the same as Baltimore, Maryland, or Albuquerque, New Mexico, for example. As such, southern magnolias , needle palms , windmill palms , loblolly pines , and crape myrtles are grown in private and public gardens. Old Saybrook
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3968-464: The Admiral's House built in 1843. The Army still retained a military presence on the island, and in the 1830s, it constructed several new buildings, such as officers' barracks and a hospital. The Army also added masonry seawalls and opened an "administrative and training center" starting from the 1850s. The erection of the recruiting center and barracks resulted in the creation of Nolan Park, to
4092-483: The National Park Service . The following year, it was announced that Governors Island would become public property, though the transfer of the island was delayed due to the 2002 New York gubernatorial election . On January 31, 2003, the rest of the island's 150 acres, as well as 32 acres (13 ha) of underwater land, were sold for a "nominal sum" (reported to be $ 1) and placed under the management of
4216-819: The Northeast Corridor to Boston, New York, and points south. The high-speed Acela Express passes through Old Saybrook, but does not stop; service is provided by the conventional Northeast Regional . The Connecticut Department of Transportation provides regular commuter service to New Haven, New London, and Stamford via the Shore Line East , and connecting service to the MetroNorth Railroad, which runs to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan . The Estuary Transit District provides public transportation services throughout Old Saybrook and
4340-758: The Tappan Zee . Even though the British were able to travel as far north as the Tappan Zee, the colonists' cannon inflicted enough damage to make the British commanders cautious of entering the East River , and the fortifications contributed to the success of Washington's retreat from Brooklyn to Manhattan after the Battle of Long Island , when the British Army attempted to take Brooklyn Heights during
4464-550: The United States Coast Guard announced that it had asked for permission to move to Fort Jay in order to consolidate its facilities within New York City. The Coast Guard saw the island as an opportunity to consolidate and provide more facilities for its schools, and as a base for its regional and Atlantic Ocean operations. On December 31, 1965, the Army base was formally decommissioned and the installation became
4588-514: The "world's crookedest" golf course due to its enclosed nature in a confined space. Tennis courts and swimming pools were also present on Governors Island. Different groupings of recreational areas were generally located according to military hierarchy. The number of houses of worship increased as a Roman Catholic church was built in 1942, followed by a synagogue in 1959. World War II resulted in another hierarchical change on Governors Island, turning it into an administrative center. In 1939,
4712-457: The 8-mile (13 km) Governors Island Railroad, which consisted of numerous sidings for shunting . The railroad had been reduced to 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and was dubbed the "World's Shortest Railroad" by the time it was torn up in 1931. A buried railroad truck was dug up on the island in 2014, possibly the remains of a handcar . In 1920, upon the end of World War I, the Army restructured its internal organization so that Governors Island
4836-520: The British continued to improve Governor's Island's defenses. At the end of the Revolution, Governor's Island was transferred from the Crown to the state of New York. The island saw no military usage, instead being used as a hotel and racetrack. The quality of the fortifications, which were mostly made of earth, began to decline. The name of Nutten Island was changed to "Governors Island" by act of
4960-574: The Children's Tree Montessori School. The town also has a number of students who attend private schools, including nearby parochial schools such as Xavier High School and Mercy High School . As of the 2010 census, 10,242 people, 4,247 households, and 2,923 families were living in the town; 1,108 households had children under 18. The population density was 682.8 inhabitants per square mile (263.6/km ). The 5,602 housing units had an average density of 373.5 per square mile (144.2/km ). The racial makeup of
5084-638: The Governors Island Historic District on June 18, 1996. The United States Department of Transportation , the parent of the Coast Guard, identified the Governors Island base for closure in 1995. The move was part of a series of Coast Guard base closures that would collectively save $ 100 million a year. Governors Island alone cost $ 60 million a year to maintain. By 1996, the Coast Guard had relocated all functions and residential personnel to offices and bases, but left
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5208-593: The National Park Service while the rest are under the jurisdiction of The Trust for Governors Island. The island is about 400 yd (370 m) west of Brooklyn and 800 yd (730 m) south of Manhattan. Politically it is part of the borough of Manhattan, and shares the ZIP Code 10004 with the blocks around South Ferry in Manhattan. Governors Island contains several named streets, mostly in
5332-769: The National Register of Historic Places, the Center has been renovated with public funds from the Town of Old Saybrook and donations raised by the Trustees of the Kate. It includes a 285-seat theater and the Katharine Hepburn Museum. As befits an organization born of such a public/private partnership, programming is eclectic, offering something for all ages and attracts patrons from throughout Connecticut and
5456-611: The Netherlands in 1642. The windmill was demolished possibly by 1648, when colonial governor Peter Stuyvesant burned it down after seeing it in inoperable condition. Following this, Noten Eylandt is said to have been used as a recreation ground by the Dutch between 1652 and 1664. There is little other documentation on the use of the island during the Dutch colonial period, other than the fact that it has remained in public ownership since van Twiller left New Netherland. New Netherland
5580-604: The New Netherland territory. For this reason, the New York State Senate and Assembly recognize Governors Island as the birthplace of the state of New York, and also certify the island as the place on which the planting of the "legal-political guaranty of tolerance onto the North American continent" took place. In 1633, the fifth director of New Netherland , Wouter van Twiller , arrived with
5704-595: The Pequot retaliation fell on the settlers at Saybrook. Over a period of eight months, the Pequot killed and wounded more than 20 settlers at and near Saybrook Fort. The settlers were attacked when they ventured far from their palisade, and the Pequot destroyed their provisions and burned warehouses while they attempted to interrupt river traffic to Windsor, Wethersfield, and Hartford.{{cite book |title=Colonial Connecticut: A History |first=Robert J. |last=Taylor |publisher=KTO Press |location=Milwood, NY |year=1979} |page=13} During
5828-628: The Siege and Battle of Saybrook Fort, the Pequot and New England colonists assessed each other's military capabilities, and adjusted countertactics. Each side's tactical modifications show a high degree of sophistication, planning, and ingenuity. Lessons learned during the siege of Saybrook escalated the Pequot War in Connecticut Colony , and indirectly resulted in the attack and destruction of Mistick Fort (May 1637). The Saybrook Colony
5952-449: The U.S. was built on Governors Island in 1885. Subsequent construction in the 1890s and 1900s added several officers' residences to the island. Starting in 1888, there was a movement to convert Governors Island into a public park for Lower Manhattan residents. Though park proponents argued that Central Park and Prospect Park were too far away for Lower Manhattan residents, the plan did not succeed. The Army started planning to expand
6076-487: The United States legislature on March 29, 1784. Governors Island was conveyed to the New York State Board of Regents in 1790 "for the encouragement of education ... unless needed for military purposes." Little else is known about the island's use during this time. By the mid-1790s, increased military tensions renewed an interest in fortifying New York Harbor, and a U.S. congressional committee had drawn
6200-478: The battery mound remained until 1871, when the Valley Railroad leveled it and other hills on the point to provide needed fill for their tracks across the north and south coves. In 1661, a witch trial was held of Saybrook residents Margaret Jennings and her husband Nicholas, who were accused of causing the deaths of Marie Marvin and others. The trial resulted in a finding that they were probably witches, but
6324-417: The city and state to maintain the island for public use was reached in 2000. Throughout this time, the federal government continued to maintain the island for $ 20 million a year. In a last-minute act while in office, President Clinton designated a 22-acre (8.9 ha) area, including Fort Jay and Castle Williams, as Governors Island National Monument on January 19, 2001. The monument would be administered by
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#17327839216606448-568: The city's government held the NYCx Governors Island Connectivity Challenge, asking three companies to test out 5G technology on Governors Island; if the project was successful, the city's government would pursue a wider rollout of 5G in New York City. The Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's expanded Arts Center at Governors Island opened in September 2019 in a renovated former ordnance warehouse at
6572-417: The construction of Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn in 1930, the island was considered as a site for a municipal airport. In 1927, U.S. Representative and future New York City mayor Fiorello La Guardia advocated for a commercial airport to be placed in Governors Island, since it was closer to Manhattan than the proposed site of Floyd Bennett Field. A bill in the U.S. House to create a Governors Island airport
6696-467: The construction of the new parkland in the 2010s, has contained the Hills, which range from 26 to 70 feet (7.9 to 21.3 m) high. This construction, part of the island's Park and Public Space Master Plan, included various measures to make the island more resilient against the effects of climate change, like raising much of the south island out of the 100-year flood plain, and replacing the old sea wall with
6820-503: The contest. The plan included 87 acres (35 ha) of open space, as well as provided for the restoration of the historic district and a new park on the island's southern portion. Artificial hills were part of West 8's plan for the island, as were free bicycle rentals. Since the island was windy, West 8 designed their proposed topography to provide moments of shelter. Some plans were not implemented; these included an aerial gondola system designed by Santiago Calatrava , as well as
6944-416: The deed restriction precludes most long-term development on Governors Island. Progress on redevelopment was slow, but in early 2006, Governor George Pataki and Mayor Michael Bloomberg launched a competition for ideas to preserve Governors Island. During this period, the National Park Service and GIPEC began conducting restorations on parts of Governors Island. Major construction was necessary to convert
7068-532: The east by the 400-yard-wide (370 m) Buttermilk Channel . The National Park Service administers a small portion of the north end of the island as the Governors Island National Monument , including two former military fortifications named Fort Jay and Castle Williams . The Trust for Governors Island operates the remaining 150 acres (61 ha), including 52 historic buildings, as a public park. About 103 acres (42 ha) of
7192-527: The east for Fort Columbus. Together with these changes, a grassy area was cleared between Fort Columbus and Castle Williams to allow better vantage points should defensive attacks be launched. Other Army structures included a muster station that operated throughout the Mexican–American War and American Civil War , as well as a music school. Still, most of the troops continued to live in tents. To accommodate Army personnel's religious requirements,
7316-400: The eradication of invasive Japanese beetles . The Army also incrementally repaved Governors Island's roads so they could accommodate modern vehicles, and constructed garages. An Army community developed on Governors Island during the mid-20th century. The island had three chapels in addition to the movie theater, YMCA, and "officer's club". Recreation was also popular; one common sport
7440-553: The exhibit features her 1975 Primetime Emmy Award, examples of letters written to her family during the early years of her career, costume and personal wardrobe pieces, and two of her paintings, including a self-portrait. Kate frequently entertains offers for donations to add to the collection. The building in which the venue is housed dates from circa 1910 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007 as Old Saybrook Town Hall and Theater . The property
7564-590: The feasibility of closing redundant military installations, especially naval ship yards, in order to save money. The Department of Defense announced in May 1964 that it was considering closing Fort Jay, the Brooklyn Navy Yard , and the Brooklyn Army Terminal . Despite protests from workers at the three facilities, McNamara announced that November that Fort Jay would be one of nearly a hundred military installations that would be closed. In February 1965,
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#17327839216607688-563: The federal government on February 15, 1800. Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Williams , placed in charge of New York Harbor defenses in the early 1800s, proposed several new fortifications around the harbor as part of the Second System of fortifications. Unlike the First System defenses, the new fortifications were to be made of masonry to preclude deterioration, and they included increased firepower and improved weaponry. Fort Jay
7812-609: The first phase of construction. Construction on the $ 260 million park started May 24, 2012, and the Coast Guard-era military housing complexes were demolished. As part of phase 1 of the master plan, Soissons Landing was upgraded with new ferry docks and a waiting plaza, while the Parade Ground was regraded for lawn sports, while the Historic District gained concessions. In 2013, construction started on
7936-528: The former town hall building to its original use as a theater. The theater was completed in 2009 and is named the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center . The town has committed spending almost $ 2 million on the renovation, and at least $ 810,000 were to be contributed by the state. A committee was attempting to raise another $ 2.5 million, partly for the renovation and to add two wings, but also for an endowment. The structure
8060-430: The formerly undeveloped northern and eastern sides of the island: the old wood-frame barracks outside Fort Columbus were replaced, and new officers' quarters were built in Nolan Park, east of Fort Columbus. The seawalls on the north and west sides of the island were rehabilitated or extended to create additional buildable land. During this period of expansion, in 1870, a particularly severe yellow fever epidemic occurred on
8184-580: The fortifications on Governor's Island were devised in 1766 by British military engineer John Montresor . These plans were never realized, even though the British had asked for funding for these fortifications in 1774. After the American Revolution started, Continental Army General George Washington assigned General Charles Lee to create a defensive plan for New York Harbor. Lee's plan called for several defensive forts in Brooklyn, in Manhattan's Battery , and on Governor's Island. On
8308-403: The fortifications were still operational. Castle Williams held Confederate prisoners of war and Fort Columbus held captured Confederate officers. The austere accommodations frequently held over a thousand prisoners, and they frequently escaped and swam across to "mainland" Manhattan. In 1863, in the midst of the New York City draft riots , protesters unsuccessfully attempted to take over
8432-637: The island as a preserve to breed and hunt pheasants . Other governors leased out the island for profit, and for a short period around 1710, Governor's Island was designated as a quarantine station for Palatine (German) refugees arriving from England on their way to Germantown on the Hudson. Otherwise, Governor's Island mostly remained untouched until the American Revolutionary War started in 1775. The first plans for fortifications on Governor's Island were made in 1741, in anticipation of
8556-492: The island became the headquarters of the U.S. First Army , and two years later the Eastern Defense Command was also established on the island. In conjunction, 72 temporary structures were erected on the island. Governors Island became a U.S. Army recruitment center in 1941, and was processing 1,500 recruits daily by 1942. This volume proved to be overwhelming due to the island's isolation. In October 1942
8680-547: The island following the announcement. Additionally, two organizations announced plans to host about a dozen residents by 2022. The QC NY spa opened inside a former barracks on the north side of the island in March 2022, and the Gitano Island beach club opened that July. In April 2023, the Trust for Governors Island selected Stony Brook University to construct a 400,000-square-foot (37,000 m ) climate research lab on
8804-703: The island for public use, such as repairs to the seawall and removal of asbestos . By 2006, the GIPEC had awarded leases to its first two tenants. The public was first allowed to visit the island in 2005, and eight thousand visitors came that year. At first, Governors Island was only open during summer weekends, except for a few concerts. Bikes and ferry services were made free in order to attract visitors. Art exhibits were later added. In mid-2007, GIPEC announced five finalist design teams, namely West 8 , Diller Scofidio + Renfro , Rogers Marvel Architects, Quennell Rothschild & Partners, and SMWM. West 8 ultimately won
8928-550: The island in the late 1880s and the 1890s. The U.S. Secretary of War, Elihu Root , contemplated such an expansion so that the island would have enough space to accommodate a full battalion. Using material excavated from the first line of the New York City Subway , the Army Corps of Engineers added 4.787 million cubic yards (3,660,000 m ) of fill, extending Governors Island to the south. The work
9052-499: The island is bisected by Division Road and Liggett Hall , which separate the NPS-operated northern section from the parkland in the southern section. The highest natural point on Governors Island is 40 feet (12 m) above mean water level at the base of Fort Jay, in the northern portion of the island. The southern section formerly was lowland and was located no more than 13.5 feet (4.1 m) above mean sea level, but, since
9176-497: The island when Army troops were deployed to Manhattan. After the war, Castle Williams was used as a military stockade and became the East Coast counterpart to military prisons at Fort Leavenworth , Kansas, and Alcatraz Island , California. Infrastructure and facilities were repaired, unused structures were destroyed, and in 1875 a new munitions warehouse was built north of Fort Columbus. Significant development occurred on
9300-749: The island, in Reagan's last U.S.-Soviet summit as president. In July 1993, the United Nations held discussions between Haitian political leaders at the South Battery, which resulted in the Governors Island Accord being signed. The Coast Guard era also coincided with two landmark designations. On February 4, 1985, a 92-acre (370,000 m ) portion of Governors Island was designated a National Historic Landmark . The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission created
9424-429: The island, sickening hundreds and requiring a quarantine . The structures that hosted yellow fever patients were later demolished. Despite these changes, in 1873 Fort Columbus and Castle Williams were still described as operable. In 1878, Fort Columbus became a major Army administrative center, and Army officers' families started to move in. Other recreational options on the island were tennis courts in Nolan Park;
9548-410: The island, which was planned to cost $ 700 million and be complete in 2028. The lab, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill , is to consist of two narrow structures connected by a solar-paneled roof. The Trust announced plans in mid-2024 to convert Building 140 into a restaurant and event space. Governors Island comprises 172 acres (70 ha) of land. About 22 acres (9 ha) are operated by
9672-554: The land area is fill , added in the early 1900s to the south of the original island. The native Lenape originally referred to Governors Island as Paggank ("nut island") because of the area's rich collection of chestnut , hickory , and oak trees; it is believed that this space was originally used for seasonal foraging and hunting. The name was translated into the Dutch Noten Eylandt , then Anglicized into Nutten Island , before being renamed Governor's Island by
9796-509: The largest battle of the war, around August 27, 1776. In what appeared to be a strategic miscalculation, the rebels' munitions caused little to no damage to the British ships that were waiting some 2 miles (3.2 km) downstream. Two days after the British withdrawal to Manhattan, the Continental Army forces withdrew from Brooklyn and Governor's Island, and the British took back Governor's Island. From September 2 to 14, 1776,
9920-489: The late 18th century. The island's use as a military installation dates to 1776, during the American Revolutionary War , when Continental Army troops raised defensive works on the island. From 1783 to 1966, the island was a United States Army post, serving mainly as a training ground for troops, though it also served as a strategic defense point during wartime. The island then served as a major United States Coast Guard installation until 1996. Following its decommissioning as
10044-543: The many chestnut, hickory , and oak trees on the island. The Dutch explorer Adriaen Block called it Noten Eylandt , a translation, and this was Anglicized into Nutten Island , a name that continued to be used until the late 18th century. The name "Governor's Island", with an apostrophe , stems from the British colonial era , when the colonial assembly reserved the island for the exclusive use of New York's royal governors . The current name without an apostrophe
10168-542: The new British garrison engaged volleys with Washington's guns on the Battery in front of Fort George in Manhattan. On September 6, the Americans' unsuccessful attempt to detonate the submersible Turtle at the island was the first documented submarine attack in history. The fort, along with the rest of New York City, was held by the British for the rest of the war until Evacuation Day in 1783. During this time,
10292-473: The night of April 9, 1776, Continental Army General Israel Putnam came to the island to add earthworks and 40 cannons, in anticipation of the return of the British, who had fled New York City the year before. The island's defenses continued to be improved over the following months, and on July 12, 1776, the defenses engaged HMS Phoenix and HMS Rose as they made a run up the Hudson River to
10416-581: The non-profit organization Added Value, was launched. In 2010, the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School relocated from Bushwick, Brooklyn , to building 550 on Governors Island. Also opened that year were artist studios run by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council and housed in a portion of Building 110. Demolition of old structures on Governors Island began in 2008 with the destruction of
10540-564: The north end of the island. The new Arts Center features gallery, exhibition, and performance space as well as studio areas for up to 40 artists. The opening of the Arts Center added LMCC to the island's community of year-round tenants, which also includes Billion Oyster Project , an organization to restore New York Harbor's oyster population and biodiversity; the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School,
10664-401: The northern part of the island. The entirety of the island is surrounded by a waterfront promenade. Governors Island's shape is roughly characterized as resembling an ice cream cone. The 69-acre (28 ha) northern part of the island is original and can be described as the "ice cream", while the artificial 103-acre (42 ha) southern section can be described as the "cone". Functionally,
10788-586: The old buildings and provide for symmetrical building layouts. These plans were never executed. In addition, Root changed Fort Columbus's name back to its historic title, Fort Jay, in 1904. The Chapel of St. Cornelius the Centurion replaced the former chapel in 1907. The newly constructed southern part of Governors Island was initially used as an airstrip. In the world's first over-water flight in October 1909, Wilbur Wright flew from Governors Island, over
10912-594: The principals of the group who had planned to settle the colony were supporters of Oliver Cromwell and remained in England during the English Civil War , the colony struggled. In 1644, Fenwick agreed to merge the colony with the more vibrant Connecticut Colony a few miles upriver, which purchased the land and fort from him. The design of the Flag of Connecticut comes from the seal of Saybrook Colony. The seal
11036-669: The proof was not sufficient to execute them. On October 9, 1701, the Collegiate School of Connecticut was chartered in Old Saybrook. It moved to New Haven in 1716, and was later renamed Yale University . Turtle —the first American submarine—was invented in Westbrook, Connecticut, in 1775 by David Bushnell. A replica is housed at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex . The General Assembly created
11160-458: The recruitment station was moved to Grand Central Palace , near Grand Central Terminal . Following the end of World War II in 1945, Governors Island continued to be the U.S. First Army's headquarters, and few substantive changes were made. Some buildings were razed in the southwest corner of the island, and an administrative office was destroyed to make way for a parking lot, but overall the building layout remained relatively untouched. Prior to
11284-503: The region. The Kate presents more than 250 performances and events each year, including music, theater, comedy, film, simulcasts of the Metropolitan Opera, and dance, as well as hosts arts education programs for children and youth. The Katharine Hepburn Museum presents an authentic view of the cultural and historical impact of Miss Hepburn and her family. In addition to many photographs from Katharine Hepburn’s life and career,
11408-552: The rest of the 19th century. The New York Arsenal, a military division that dealt with artillery and was separate from the Army, moved to the island in 1832 and started constructing an armory building three years later. Construction of structures for the Arsenal continued for several decades. To distinguish the Arsenal's and the Army's structures, the former's buildings were designed in the Greek Revival style, such as
11532-465: The security and ticketing checkpoints for the Liberty Island and Ellis Island tourist ferries from the Battery to Governors Island, bringing as many as 500,000 additional people to Governors Island each year. The number of tenants on Governors Island started to increase, though they numbered fewer than 1,000 as of 2014. In 2009, a 3-acre (12,000 m ) commercial organic farm, operated by
11656-587: The separate town of Old Saybrook from Saybrook in 1852. Old Saybrook was partitioned again in 1854, when the northern part became the town of Essex. A 1964 meeting at Old Saybrook, the First Invitational Conference on Humanistic Psychology, was key to the early development of humanistic psychology . Saybrook University in California, established in 1971, is named after the conference. In early 2007, plans were established to return
11780-403: The site of the earlier Revolutionary War earthworks. Work proceeded despite concerns that Fort Jay's low elevation made it vulnerable to being captured. Fort Jay, a square four-bastioned fort, was made of earthworks and timber, two impermanent materials that deteriorated soon after the threat of war went away, and by 1805 it had significantly degraded. Ownership of the island was transferred to
11904-413: The southern portion of Governors Island, which replaced the temporary World War II-era buildings on that site. The golf course and open space in the center of the island were preserved during this wave of development. Liggett Hall was converted to classrooms, and other historic structures were preserved and restored. A community of Coast Guard members began to develop on the island, and it came to include
12028-517: The southern tip of Manhattan, as well as Fort Wood on Liberty Island , and Fort Gibson on Ellis Island . The existing fortifications were meant to protect the city during the War of 1812 . Fort Jay, located at the center of the original (northern) portion of Governors Island, is the oldest, having been built in 1794. It was built on the highest point of the island, with a glacis sloping down from all sides. The initial fortifications degraded to such
12152-531: The surrounding towns through its 9 Town transit services. Old Saybrook is served by two freeways that intersect within the town's borders. Interstate 95 runs across the town from west to east (though it is signed north–south), and connects Old Saybrook to New Haven and New London along the Connecticut shoreline. Connecticut Route 9 has its southern terminus at I-95, and extends to the northwest to ultimately reach Middletown and Hartford. One radio station
12276-454: The town was $ 43,266. About 4.5% of families and 5.9% of the population were below the poverty line , including 6.0% of those under age 18 and 4.3% of those age 65 or over. At the 2000 census , 10,367 people, 4,184 households, and 2,920 families resided in the town. The population density was 689.5 inhabitants per square mile (266.2/km ). The 5,357 housing units had an average density of 356.3 per square mile (137.6/km ). The racial makeup of
12400-509: The town was 93.9% White, 0.9% African American, 0.1% Native American, 2.4% Asian, 1.2% from other races, and 1.5% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 3.3% of the population. Of the 4,247 households, 23.7% had children under 18 living with them, 56.2% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.2% were not families. About 28.9% of households were one person and 14.6% were one person 65 or older. The average household size
12524-533: The town was 95.8% White, 1.0% African American, 0.1% Native American, 1.7% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.5% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 1.9% of the population. Of the 4,184 households, 27.2% had children under 18 living with them, 59.4% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.2% were not families. About 25.4% of households were one person, and 12.9% were one person 65 or older. The average household size
12648-554: The west side of Manhattan, then back to the island. The following year, Glenn Curtiss completed a flight from Albany to New York City by landing on the island. An aviation training center even operated from 1916 to 1917. In honor of these aviators, the Early Birds Monument at Liggett Hall was dedicated in 1954. Despite the island's expansion, little development happened immediately, but significant construction occurred during World War I. Governors Island
12772-609: The world's largest barracks upon its completion in 1928. Afterward, the Army hired McKim, Mead & White to build a "barracks district" near Liggett Hall. During the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration landscaped much of the island and reinforced many existing structures, hiring up to 5,000 workers in the process. Some of the WPA's projects included the restoration of the General's House, as well as
12896-532: The world. To remember her in this manner is most fitting and I salute the efforts of all those involved." Connecticut U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd had also recognized the theater in saying: "I commend everyone participating in this grand effort to restore the old Town Hall building in Old Saybrook to create in its place the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, I'm honored that I can lend my name in support of what will be
13020-715: The years. While it attracted 275,000 visitors in 2009, over 800,000 people came to the island in 2018. In September 2016, the Trust for Governors Island and the New York City Economic Development Corporation started an online survey to develop ideas for Governors Island as a year-round destination. Two years later, mayor Bill de Blasio opened a formal process to rezone the remaining un-redeveloped portions of Governors Island for dormitory, office, or educational use. The proposed rezoning drew opposition from activists who wanted Governors Island to be kept largely as-is. Also in 2018,
13144-481: Was polo , a relic from the 19th century when travel on the island was by horseback. In 1920, a polo playing field was established on the island's Parade Ground. Though a golf course had been built in 1903 near Fort Jay, a new polo-and-golf course called the Governors Island Golf Course was built circa 1925–1926. The course was located on the grounds of Fort Jay, and was sometimes called
13268-457: Was 2.21, and the average family size was 2.71. The age distribution was 21.4% under 20, 3.4% from 20 to 24, 16.4% from 25 to 44, 33.5% from 45 to 64, and 25.3% 65 or older. The median age was 50.1 years. The population consisted of 4,852 (47.4%) males and 5,390 (52.6%) females. The median household income was $ 80,347 and the median family income was $ 97,399. Males had a median income of $ 74,298 versus $ 49,913 for females. The per capita income for
13392-418: Was 2.41, and the average family size was 2.90. The age distribution was 21.7% under the age of 18, 4.1% from 18 to 24, 25.2% from 25 to 44, 27.6% from 45 to 64, and 21.5% 65 or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.3 males. The median household income was $ 62,742 and the median family income was $ 72,868. Males had
13516-418: Was also homeport for U.S. Coast Guard cutters , including USCGC Gallatin (WHEC-721) , USCGC Morgenthau (WHEC-722) , and USCGC Dallas (WHEC-716) . The Coast Guard split the island's operations among seven divisions, and began making various improvements such as adding a boat marina and the world's first search-and-rescue training school. By 1972, the Coast Guard had opened some apartment blocks on
13640-542: Was an author and former Mayor of West Hartford, Connecticut . Former Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell said the following about the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center: "It is my pleasure to recognize that one of Connecticut's own is being honored in the naming of an historic building that will perpetuate her legacy. Katharine Hepburn contributed much in her long career in film and theater, not only to Connecticut, but throughout
13764-430: Was brought from England by Colonel George Fenwick, and depicted 15 grapevines and a hand in the upper left corner with a scroll reading " Qui Transtulit Sustinet ", "He who transplanted sustains". In 1647 Major John Mason assumed command of Saybrook (Colony) Fort, which controlled the main trade and supply route to the upper river valley. The fort promptly and mysteriously burned to the ground, but another improved fort
13888-466: Was built to the south of Fort Columbus on the island's eastern shore in 1812. The War of 1812 commenced shortly after the completion of these defenses, though the fortifications never saw combat. After the War of 1812, the island did not see much development. Rather, it was used for garrisoning troops starting c. 1821. The troops garrisoned on the island were deployed to wars four times in
14012-542: Was conditionally ceded to the English in 1664, and the English renamed the settlement New York in June 1665. By 1674, the British had total control of the island. At this point, the eastern shore of the island was separated from Brooklyn by a shallow channel that could be easily traversed at low tide. This became known as Buttermilk Channel , since farm women would use the channel to travel to Manhattan island in boats and sell buttermilk . By 1680, Nutten Island contained
14136-733: Was established in late 1635 at the mouth of the Connecticut River , in what is today Old Saybrook and environs. John Winthrop, the Younger , son of the Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony , was designated governor by the group that claimed possession of the land via a deed of conveyance from Robert Rich, 2nd Earl of Warwick . Winthrop was aided by Colonel George Fenwick and Captain Lion Gardiner . As
14260-623: Was initially reluctant to take up Clinton's offer because it would not have been financially beneficial to the city. The issue was exacerbated when the Balanced Budget Act was passed in 1997, stipulating that the GSA sell the island at a fair market value by 2002. The island's sale was expected to net the federal government $ 500 million. With the announcement of the Coast Guard base's closure, officials and developers began offering plans for development. Mayor Giuliani considered building
14384-415: Was made official in 1784. Governors Island was initially much smaller than it is today. It had many inlets along its shoreline, and groves of hardwood trees, from which the island's native name is derived. There is insufficient evidence as to whether Governors Island contained any permanent Lenape settlements, or was used mainly for hunting and gathering. In 1524, the explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano
14508-473: Was mostly finished by 1909-1910 and was declared complete by January 1913. When the project was finished, it expanded the island's total area by 103 acres (0.42 km ), to 172 acres (0.70 km ). Secretary Root also retained the services of Beaux-Arts architect Charles Follen McKim to redesign nearly every structure on Governors Island, as well as create a plan for the island's topography. McKim presented plans in 1902 and 1907 to tear down all of
14632-550: Was named Kievits Hoek, or "Plover's Corner". Kievits Hoek was soon abandoned as the Dutch consolidated settlement at New Amsterdam . In 1633, Fort Goede Hoop ( Huys de Goede Hoop ), was established at present-day Hartford. The Pequot siege of Saybrook Fort took place from September 1636 to March 1637 during the Pequot War . Following the August 1636 Massachusetts Bay attack on Manisses, Pequot, and Western Niantic villages,
14756-534: Was now the headquarters of the Second Corps Area. Few structures were built immediately after the end of the war, though the Army maintained the existing buildings and continued to utilize the island as a military prison. Some of the wooden barracks structures deteriorated rapidly, prompting objections from congressional delegations. A school for Army soldiers' children was opened on Governors Island in 1926. In 1927, General Hanson Edward Ely commenced
14880-485: Was originally built in 1901, and was a theater until the 1940s. After renovations, the theater was to seat 250, and Hepburn memorabilia would be displayed there. According to the United States Census Bureau , the town has a total area of 21.6 square miles (56.0 km ), of which 6.6 sq mi (17.0 km ) (30.45%) are covered by water. Coastal Connecticut (including Old Saybrook)
15004-532: Was perhaps the first European to observe what was then called Paggank . One hundred years later, in May 1624, Noten Eylandt was the landing place of the first settlers in New Netherland . They departed from Amsterdam in the Dutch Republic with the ship Nieu Nederlandt under the command of Cornelius Jacobsen May and disembarked on the island with thirty families in order to take possession of
15128-624: Was quickly built nearby on the Battery Mound. He spent the next 12 years there and also served as commissioner of the United Colonies , the chief military officer, magistrate , and peacekeeper. In 1659, almost all settlers from Saybrook under the leadership of Mason, purchased land from Uncas , sachem of the Mohegan tribe, removed to and founded Norwich, Connecticut . This second fort was eventually abandoned after 200 years and
15252-408: Was rebuilt from 1806 to 1809 in its current five-pointed star shape, and was renamed Fort Columbus shortly afterward. A second major fortification, Castle Williams, was a circular battery built between 1807 and 1811 on a rocky shoal extending from the northwest corner of the island, to the north of Fort Columbus. A third fortification, the South Battery or Half-Moon Battery (now building 298),
15376-597: Was voted down. The island also hosted the Governors Island Army Airfield for some time after World War II until the 1960s. In 1940, work started on the Brooklyn–Battery Tunnel , which passes underwater offshore of the island's northeast corner. A ventilation building designed by McKim, Mead & White is connected to the island by a causeway . Initially, Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority chairman Robert Moses had proposed
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