Fishers Island Map

Description:

Description: This map shows where the island is located in New York State.

Fishers Island is a small island located at the eastern end of Long Island Sound, approximately 2 miles off the southeastern coast of Connecticut. Despite its proximity to Connecticut, the island is part of Suffolk County, New York, specifically within the town of Southold. The island is approximately 7 miles long and 1 mile wide at its widest point, with a total land area of about 5 square miles (13 sq km).

The year-round population of Fishers Island is small, with approximately 230 permanent residents according to recent census data. However, during the summer months, the population swells significantly as seasonal residents and tourists arrive. The island has historically been a summer colony for wealthy families from New York and Connecticut, and many of these seasonal residents maintain vacation homes on the island.

Access to Fishers Island is primarily by ferry from New London, Connecticut, operated by the Fishers Island Ferry District. There is also a small airport, Elizabeth Field, which accommodates private aircraft. The island has limited commercial development, with most businesses concentrated in the village of Fishers Island, which serves as the island's main settlement. Facilities include a grocery store, a few restaurants, a post office, and other basic services catering to residents and visitors.

The island's history dates back to 1614 when Dutch explorer Adriaen Block first charted it. It was named after John Winthrop Jr., who was given the island in 1640 and whose family name was Fisher before it changed to Winthrop. The island served various military purposes during the 19th and 20th centuries, including as a coastal defense installation. The remains of Fort H.G. Wright, constructed in 1898, can still be found on the island and represent an important historical landmark.

Fishers Island is known for its natural beauty and conservation efforts. Approximately one-third of the island is protected open space. The Henry L. Ferguson Museum not only preserves the island's history but also manages several nature preserves. Popular recreational areas include South Beach and Isabella Beach, which offer swimming and views of the Atlantic Ocean. The island is also home to the exclusive Fishers Island Club, a private golf course consistently ranked among the top courses in the United States.

The island's ecosystem is unique due to its geographical position at the boundary between southern New England coastal ecosystems and those more characteristic of the mid-Atlantic region. This creates a diverse habitat for various plant and animal species, making it an area of ecological significance.