Benjamin Island (Alaska) facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Juneau City and Borough, Alaska |
| Coordinates | 58°33′44″N 134°54′38″W / 58.56222°N 134.91056°W |
| Archipelago | Alexander Archipelago |
| Length | 1.5 mi (2.4 km) |
| Width | 0.5 mi (0.8 km) |
| Highest elevation | 92 ft (28 m) |
| Administration | |
|
United States
|
|
| State | Alaska |
| Borough | Juneau |
Benjamin Island is a small island located in Juneau, Alaska, in the United States. It was given its name by Captain Lester A. Beardslee of the United States Navy back in 1880. This island is found off the eastern shore of Favorite Channel, about 25 miles (40 km) northwest of the city of Juneau.
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About Benjamin Island
Benjamin Island is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long and 0.5 miles (0.8 km) wide. It sits about 0.75 miles (1.2 km) north of the Sentinel Island Light and 0.25 miles (0.4 km) south of North Island. It's one of the islands furthest north in Favorite Channel.
Fun Activities
This island is part of the Channel Islands State Marine Park. It's a great spot for people to enjoy outdoor activities. Many visitors come here for fun picnics and to go camping.
A Bit of History
Benjamin Island has a small role in the history of the area. It was connected to an important event involving a ship called the SS Princess Sophia.
The Lighthouse Tender Cedar
On October 24, 1918, a ship called the SS Princess Sophia ran into trouble during a snowstorm. A special boat, the United States Lighthouse Service tender Cedar, was taking shelter at Benjamin Island. When the Cedar heard about the Princess Sophia's problem, it quickly left Benjamin Island to go help.
Amazing Wildlife
The waters and land around Benjamin Island are home to many interesting animals. It's a great place to see some of Alaska's incredible wildlife.
Sea Creatures and Land Animals
You might spot large Humpback whales swimming in the ocean near the island. Steller sea lions also live in this area. These big marine mammals often rest on the rocks. In 2005, a female moose was even seen on the island!
Studying Wildlife
Scientists are very interested in the animals around Benjamin Island. The National Marine Fisheries Service and the University of Alaska Fairbanks worked together on a project here. They placed cameras on the island to study the sea lions and learn more about their lives.
