Take a Free Island History Walking Tour, May 28-29

To celebrate the fourteenth public season of Governors Island opening, there will be free history walking tours on Saturday, May 28, and Sunday, May 29. The walks will meet at 12:15 p.m. at Soissons Dock on the Island (see below).

A free walking tour will focus on the three hundred years of island history. Learn about the people and stories that shaped Governors Island. Stops explore the military life, Civil War and World War I events, aviation pioneers, and even where the tiny railroad once ran. The tour is led by Kevin C. Fitzpatrick, author of The Governors Island Explorer’s Guide (Globe Pequot Press).

• See 50 locations on the island;
• History of all Army buildings and Army housing;
• Significance of all fortifications and military use of the island;
• The people that made the island a home for 200 years;
• Historical trivia galore;
• War of 1812 and the island;
• Civil War and World War I locations and tales;
• Insights into life on the island from the Dutch to the present day;
• Current usage of the park and the buildings, what the future holds;
• See rare photos, maps and drawings from Kevin’s personal collection.

The walk lasts approximately 90 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes. Bringing a bottle of water is suggested. Kids and strollers welcome.

Meet at 12:15 p.m. at the hilltop Welcome Wall where the Manhattan ferry lands at Soissons Dock. Reservations are not required.

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