National Register of Historic Places listings in Shelter Island (town), New York facts for kids

Shelter Island, New York, is a beautiful place with a rich history! Many of its special buildings and areas are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are important landmarks that tell us about the past. Think of it like a special hall of fame for historic places across the United States. These places are protected and celebrated because they have unique stories and show us how people lived long ago.

This article will take you on a tour of some of these amazing spots on Shelter Island. You'll learn about old homes, a historic camp, a country club, and even a windmill! Each place has its own tale, helping us understand the history of this charming island.

Historic Places on Shelter Island

Camp Quinipet: A Place for Fun and History

Camp Quinipet, a historic camp on Shelter Island.

Camp Quinipet is a special place located at 78 Shore Road in Shelter Island Heights. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 5, 2005. This camp has been a popular spot for many years, offering fun activities and a beautiful setting. It's known for its long history as a place where people gather, learn, and enjoy the outdoors. Imagine all the summers and memories made here over the decades!

James Havens Homestead: A Glimpse into the Past

The historic James Havens Homestead.

The James Havens Homestead is an important old home located on NY 114 in Shelter Island. It was recognized as a historic place on April 10, 1986. This homestead gives us a peek into what life was like for early residents of the island. It's a great example of the architecture and lifestyle from a different era. Homes like this help us connect with the people who lived here centuries ago.

Manhanset Chapel: A Quiet Place of Worship

The beautiful Manhanset Chapel.

You can find the Manhanset Chapel at 24 North Ferry Road on Shelter Island. This lovely chapel was added to the National Register on August 29, 1997. Chapels and churches often serve as important community centers and reflect the history of a town's people and their beliefs. The Manhanset Chapel stands as a peaceful reminder of the island's past and its community spirit.

Shelter Island Country Club: Golf and History Combined

The Shelter Island Country Club is located at 26 Sunnyside Avenue on Shelter Island. It became a historic landmark on February 25, 2009. This country club isn't just a place for golf; it also holds a significant place in the island's history. Many old country clubs have unique designs and stories about how they became popular gathering spots for recreation and social events.

Shelter Island Heights Historic District: A Neighborhood Frozen in Time

A building within the Shelter Island Heights Historic District.

The Shelter Island Heights Historic District is a larger area, not just one building. It's roughly bounded by St. Johns Street, Tower Hill Road, Sunnyside Avenue, Meadow Place, Chase Creek, and Dering Harbor in Shelter Island Heights. This entire district was added to the National Register on May 7, 1993. A historic district means that many buildings and the overall layout of the area are important to history. Walking through this district is like stepping back in time, with many well-preserved buildings showing the style of a past era.

Shelter Island Windmill: A Landmark from the Past

The historic Shelter Island Windmill.

The Shelter Island Windmill is a famous landmark located north of Manwaring Road on Shelter Island. It was added to the National Register on December 27, 1978. Windmills were very important long ago for grinding grain or pumping water. This windmill stands as a symbol of the island's agricultural past and the clever ways people used natural power. It's a beautiful and historic sight!

Smith-Taylor Cabin: An Island Retreat

The Smith-Taylor Cabin on Taylor's Island.

The Smith-Taylor Cabin is a unique historic spot found on Taylor's Island, part of Shelter Island. It was listed on the National Register on September 28, 2007. This cabin offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life, perhaps as a quiet retreat or a fisherman's haven. Its location on a small island makes it even more special and adds to its historical charm.

Sylvester Manor: A Living History Farm

A pillar at the entrance of Sylvester Manor.

Sylvester Manor is a very old and important place located at 80 North Ferry Road on Shelter Island. It was added to the National Register on April 28, 2015. This site was originally a plantation homestead from 1652! Today, it's used as an educational farm, teaching visitors about its long history, farming practices, and the lives of the people who lived and worked there over centuries. It's a fantastic place to learn about the island's deep roots.

Union Chapel: A Community Gathering Place

The historic Union Chapel in Shelter Island Heights.

The Union Chapel is located at The Grove in Shelter Island Heights. It became a historic landmark on November 23, 1984. Like other chapels, Union Chapel has likely served as a central point for community gatherings, services, and events for many years. Its architecture and history reflect the growth and spirit of the Shelter Island Heights community.