Neptune Island (Long Island Sound) facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | New Rochelle, New York Long Island Sound |
| Total islands | 1 |
| Administration | |
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United States
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| State | New York |
| County | Westchester |
| City | New Rochelle |
Neptune Island is a cool island located in Long Island Sound. It's part of the city of New Rochelle, New York. A stone road, called Neptune Road, connects the island to the mainland. On one side, a dam creates a small pond. On the other side, the island touches the Neptune Basin inlet.
Contents
A Look Back: Neptune Island's Story
How Neptune Island Got Its Name
Long ago, Neptune Island was part of the "Commons" land in the town. After the American Revolution, a man named Anthony Lispenard Bleecker owned it. In 1828, William Turpin bought the island. He decided to call it "Moses Island." During his time, the road and causeway (a raised road over water) were built. This connected the island to the mainland. A dock for steamboats was also built at the end of the road.
The Famous Neptune House Hotel
In 1837, Isaac Underhill and his wife Deborah built a summer hotel. They named it the "Neptune House." This big, white building was in the middle of the island. It became super popular! People loved staying there so much that the island was later named after the hotel.
Many steamboats would bring people to the island. They traveled between New Rochelle and New York City. Some of these famous boats were the American Eagle, Croton, Economy, and Island City. In 1876, the Neptune House was also a stop for Colonel DeLancey Kane's "Tally Ho" coach. This coach ran daily between New Rochelle and a hotel in New York City.
New Owners and New Connections
The Underhill family owned Neptune Island until 1885. Then, Adrian G Iselin bought it. He tore down most of the big hotel. Mr. Iselin was very busy! He started two railway companies. These companies connected Neptune Island to the New Rochelle railroad station. You could also get to Glen Island from Neptune Island by ferry.
Private steamboats also brought people from New York City to the island. All these new ways to travel made it much easier to visit Neptune Island.
What's on the Island Today?
Even though most of the hotel was torn down, one part was saved. It was divided into four private houses. These houses are still there today at 1, 2, 3, and 4 Harbor Lane. Mr. Iselin also gave a large part of the island to the City of New Rochelle. This area became a park for everyone to enjoy.
Today, the Huguenot Yacht Club is on the western side of the island. The old ferry between Neptune and Glen Islands is gone. Now, there's a large bascule bridge. This bridge goes from the mainland, over Neptune Island, and connects to Glen Island.
More Islands to Explore
Where is Neptune Island?
