Herring Island (Elk River) facts for kids
 Herring
Location in Maryland
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Elk River |
| Coordinates | 39°30′59″N 75°52′30″W / 39.51639°N 75.87500°W |
| Area | 2 ha (4.9 acres) |
| Highest elevation | 1 m (3 ft) |
| Administration | |
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United States
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| State | Maryland |
Herring Island is a small, private island located in the Elk River, near Randalia in Cecil County, Maryland. Even though it's small, this island has a really interesting past! It has been important to local history for a long time.
The Story of Herring Island
How the Island Formed
Herring Island wasn't always an island. It formed a long time ago, in the 1600s. Back then, it was part of a piece of land called a peninsula. Over many years, water slowly wore away the land. This process, called erosion, eventually separated the land. That's how the peninsula became the island we know today.
A Look Back in Time
Herring Island has seen many important events. Long ago, native tribes used to hunt on the island. It was a useful place for them to find food. Later, during the War of 1812, English soldiers camped on the island. This shows how the island played a part in different historical moments.
From Camp to Home
In the early 1900s, Herring Island became a special place for young people. From the early 20th century until the 1970s, it was a Boy Scout camp. The camp had many log cabins where the scouts stayed. It was a popular spot for outdoor adventures.
However, a fire sadly destroyed the main cabin. After the fire, a family bought the island. Since then, Herring Island has been a private home. It is no longer a public camp.
