Deer Island (Thousand Islands) facts for kids
![]() Deer Island as photographed from aboard a Rockport Boat Line touring vessel.
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Location of Deer Island within New York State.
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Geography | |
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Location | Saint Lawrence River at Alexandria, Jefferson County, New York |
Coordinates | 44°21′44″N 75°54′25″W / 44.36222°N 75.90694°W |
Archipelago | Thousand Islands |
Total islands | 1,864 |
Major islands | Dark Island, Longue Vue Island, Wellesley Island, Zavikon Island |
Area | 0.078124686605 sq mi (0.20234200943 km2) |
Highest elevation | 265 ft (80.8 m) |
Highest point | "Foot of the Island" |
Administration | |
United States
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Deer Island is a small island located in the Saint Lawrence River, which forms part of the border between Canada and the United States. It is one of the many beautiful islands in the Thousand Islands region. This island is found near Alexandria Bay, New York, within the town of Alexandria.
The island is privately owned by the Russell Trust Association. It is used as a special retreat for members of a very old student society called Skull and Bones. This society is based at Yale University in the United States.
Deer Island is close to Boldt Castle, a famous landmark in the area. You can often see Deer Island up close from tour boats that travel the local waterways. The island is covered with thick trees and plants. There is also a small lodge, which is like a cabin or a small house, on the southern part of the island.
What is Deer Island used for?
Deer Island serves as a private meeting place for members of the Skull and Bones society. This society is one of the oldest student organizations at Yale University. The island gives its members a quiet place to gather and stay connected.
For many years, the island has been a spot for members to relax and enjoy nature. In the past, it had tennis courts and softball fields. There were also boats ready for use on the water. Today, the island is more rustic, meaning it's less developed and closer to nature. It still offers a peaceful escape for the society's members.
Nature on Deer Island
Deer Island is home to many native trees. You can find white pine, black oak, hemlock, and sugar maple trees here. These types of trees are common in the Canadian Shield area, which is a large rocky region in North America.
The island covers about 50 acres (20 hectares). Because it's so wild, some old buildings or structures on the island are now covered by plants and trees. They are hard to see because nature has taken over.