Montauk Point State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Montauk Point State Park |
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Sunrise over the Montauk Point Light in December 2005.
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| Type | State park |
| Location | 2000 Montauk Highway Montauk, New York |
| Nearest city | Montauk, New York |
| Area | 862 acres (3.49 km2) |
| Operated by | New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation |
| Visitors | 816,970 (in 2014) |
| Open | All year |
| Website | Montauk Point State Park |
Montauk Point State Park is a large state park covering 862-acre (3.49 km2) in Montauk. This park is located at the very eastern tip of Long Island in Suffolk County, New York State. Montauk Point is the easternmost point of Long Island's South Fork. It is also the easternmost point of New York State itself.
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History of Montauk Point
Montauk Point has a long and interesting history. It played a role in important events for the United States.
The Montauk Point Lighthouse
The park is home to the famous Montauk Point Light. This lighthouse was approved by the United States Congress in 1792. George Washington, who was president at the time, gave his approval. Building the lighthouse began on June 7, 1796. It was finished on November 5, 1796.
During World War I and World War II, the lighthouse and nearby Camp Hero were made very strong. Large guns were placed there to protect the coast. You can still see these old gun areas and concrete bunkers today. They are also visible at nearby Shadmoor State Park.
The Amistad Story
An important event involving the ship Amistad happened near Montauk Point. In 1839, enslaved people on this Spanish ship took control of it. The ship was later captured by the USS Washington near Montauk Point.
The enslaved people were allowed to briefly step onto land here. Then, they were taken to New London, Connecticut, for a trial. The case, known as the Amistad case, went all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States. There, John Quincy Adams, a former president, argued that the people had been kidnapped. He won the case, and the enslaved people were allowed to return to Africa. This case was a big part of the debate about ending slavery in the United States.
Exploring the Park
Montauk Point State Park offers many fun activities for visitors. It's a great place to spend time outdoors.
Activities and Features
At the park, you can find picnic tables for outdoor meals. There is also a food stand if you get hungry. Kids can enjoy the playground. Fishing is a popular activity here. During certain times of the year, hunting is also allowed. The park has trails perfect for hiking. In winter, these trails are great for cross-country skiing.
Getting to the Park
The park is easy to reach. Suffolk Transit's S94 bus route serves the park during certain seasons. This bus connects the park with Montauk Village. If you are driving, the park is located at the very end of New York State Route 27.
Images for kids
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Montauk Light at sunrise
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Montauk Point Light in stormy weather
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Amistad Memorial
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