Please join Washington University alumni, parents, and friends on Saturday, September 15, for a private tour of Governors Island. We will meet at the Ferry Terminal to Governors Island for the 10:00 a.m. ferry to the island.
The history of Governors Island spans from the days of early European explorers, through Dutch colonial times and the twentieth century to the present day. This tour begins as soon as you meet your guide at the Battery Maritime building where you will learn about the harbor’s natural and Dutch history. Aboard the top deck of the ferry you will take in views of Lower Manhattan and New York harbor. Once on the island, the extensive military history of the site will be revealed while visiting the National Monument, Fort Jay, Nolan Park and the former houses of commanding officers along with Castle Williams which was built as a fort for the war of 1812 and also served as a confederate prison. As the tour winds southward, the focus shifts from the past to the future. The southern half of Governors Island is constructed on landfill and therefore newer than the rest of the island. Here you will visit Urban Farm and Earth Matter to learn about sustainability, farming, composting, and habitats and enjoy the gardens, hammocks, and pathways built by the Trust for Governors Island. The tour will end at the Hills which was completed in 2016 and consists of demolished military housing. The Hills offer some of the best views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty and are the perfect place to reflect on the past, present, and future of Governors Island.
Following our tour and return to the Ferry Terminal, we will make the 7 minute walk to Stone Street Tavern for a lunch.
This is a walking tour so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather (umbrella, sunscreen, and weather appropriate clothing).
Limited availability.