Gardiner’s Island, NY: 400 Years of a Pirates, Virgin Growth Forests and Historic Buildings Part 1
Off the coast of New England lies Gardiner’s Island, a treasure trove of little-known history and one of the nation's oldest family estates. Owned by the Gardiner family for over 400 years, it holds the distinction of being the largest privately owned island in America and the last remaining estate directly granted by the British Monarchy.
Lion Gardiner, a military engineer born in England in 1599, founded the island in 1639. After arriving in New England in 1635 with his wife, Mary, Lion was tasked with fortifying the colonies. Wise and forward-thinking, he not only received the island from the Crown but also respectfully purchased it from the Montauk Indian tribe. He established Gardiner Manor and became a steward of the island, preserving its natural beauty and cultural significance—a legacy continued by his descendants.
Gardiner’s Island is steeped in history, from its role in the Revolutionary War and War of 1812 to its claim as the birthplace of a First Lady and the site of hidden pirate treasure. Among its historical gems is what’s believed to be the oldest wooden structure in New York: the carpenter shed Lion Gardiner built in 1639.
The island also boasts one of the few remaining virgin-growth forests on the Atlantic seaboard. These ancient trees have played a vital role in the island’s legacy, including the construction of its iconic windmill in 1795. The windmill’s timber, sourced from oak and mulberry trees as large as four feet in diameter, was hand-cut and hewn with remarkable craftsmanship. Its support beam, shaped into a perfect octagon by hand, reflects the Gardiner family’s commitment to excellence even in structures meant for production.
The windmill, renowned as one of the finest of its time, showcases the Gardiner family's attention to detail and deep respect for the natural resources of the island.
Stay tuned for our next blog, where we delve into Gardiner’s Island’s pivotal role in two major wars and the secrets of the hidden treasure once concealed in its great forests.