Gosnold Island facts for kids
Geography | |
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Location | Westend Pond |
Coordinates | 41°24′50″N 70°56′53″W / 41.41388889°N 70.948055556°W |
Archipelago | Elizabeth Islands |
Total islands | 1 |
Highest elevation | 13 ft (4 m) |
Administration | |
United States
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State | Massachusetts |
County | Dukes County |
The Elizabeth Islands |
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Major Islands listed in order from east to west |
Nonamesset Uncatena Naushon Pasque Nashawena Penikese Cuttyhunk |
Minor Islands: |
Bachelor Baret Bull Cedar Gosnold Gull Rock Veckatimest Weepecket Islands |
Gosnold Island is a small island located in Dukes County, Massachusetts, United States. It is part of the beautiful Elizabeth Islands chain. You can find it within Westend Pond on Cuttyhunk Island, about 1 mile (1.6 km) southwest of the main part of Cuttyhunk. The island is named after a famous explorer, Bartholomew Gosnold.
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Exploring Gosnold Island
Gosnold Island is a tiny piece of land, rising only about 13 feet (4 meters) above sea level. It's not a place where people live, making it an uninhabited island. This means it's a quiet spot, often visited by wildlife. Its location inside Westend Pond makes it unique.
Where is Gosnold Island?
This island is found in the town of Gosnold, Massachusetts. This town is special because it includes all of the Elizabeth Islands. Gosnold Island is specifically located on the larger Cuttyhunk Island, but it's separated by the waters of Westend Pond. Imagine a small island within a pond, which is on a bigger island!
Who Was Bartholomew Gosnold?
Gosnold Island gets its name from Bartholomew Gosnold. He was an English explorer and privateer. In 1602, Gosnold led the first recorded European expedition to Cape Cod. He also explored the islands off the coast of Massachusetts.
Gosnold's Discoveries
Bartholomew Gosnold is known for naming Cape Cod. He also named Martha's Vineyard after his daughter, Martha. He explored many of the islands in the area, including the Elizabeth Islands. His voyages helped map out parts of the New England coast.
The Elizabeth Islands
Gosnold Island is one of the Elizabeth Islands. This is a chain of 16 islands that stretch southwest from Cape Cod in Massachusetts. They are known for their natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Main Islands in the Chain
The Elizabeth Islands include several well-known islands. These are Cuttyhunk Island, Nashawena Island, Pasque Island, and Naushon Island. Most of these islands are privately owned. Cuttyhunk is the only one with a year-round community.
Cuttyhunk Island Connection
Since Gosnold Island is located on Cuttyhunk Island, it's good to know a bit about Cuttyhunk. Cuttyhunk is the westernmost of the Elizabeth Islands. It's a popular spot for fishing and relaxing.
Life on Cuttyhunk
Cuttyhunk is a small island with a tight-knit community. It's known for its beautiful harbor and quiet charm. Many visitors come during the summer months to enjoy the beaches and fishing. The island offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life.