History

Originally inhabited by the Siwanoy Indians, who lived during the
summer on the plentiful clams, oysters and fish they found here,
City Island was first established as an English settlement in 1685.
The English crown granted Thomas Pell ownership of the island
and parts of Westchester County, which lasted until 1749, when
ownership passed to other individuals.

During the 1700s, many of the island’s residents were either
oystermen or Hellgate pilots who helped navigate ships down the
East River to New York Harbor.

Ideally situated to service schooners traveling between New
York and points north and south, the island became an important
shipbuilding and yachting center during the nineteenth and
twentieth centuries.

The two world wars brought about a conversion from yacht
building to the construction of submarine chasers, tugboats,
Vosper-style P.T. boats, landing craft, and minesweepers for the
United States government.

After World War II, yachting returned, and with it, the building of
12-meter sloops that successfully defended the America’s Cup.
Today, the presence of yacht clubs, sailing schools, marinas,
sailmakers, fishing and lobster boats, as well as marine supply and
repair shops, reflect City Island’s role as a nautical community.