This 105-acre island property is connected to New Rochelle by a drawbridge built in the 1920s. After Playland, Glen Island is the second most widely used park in the County Parks system. One of Westchester’s unique jewels, it was initially developed as a summer resort by John H. Starin. The original design exhibited the five cultures of the western world on individual islands linked together with piers and causeways. Today the islands have been merged with substantial fill areas totaling 130 acres and providing a beautiful crescent shaped beach with access to the Long Island Sound.
Cannons, sculptures and castles with coursed rubble stone, arched openings and round towers still remain from the days of John Starin’s resort. The castles, reminiscent of those in Germany's Rhineland, were constructed on their present site in the late 19th century for use as a beer garden and restaurant.
The bathhouse was originally built in a Neo-Georgian style with a cupola marking the center of the front façade. A courtyard looks out to the beach and is completed by a colonnade. The bridge, bridge house, seawall and castles are all eligible for listing on the Register of Historic Places.
DETAILS:
Where: Glen Island Park, Weyman Avenue, New Rochelle 10805 New Rochelle, NY 10805
- Directions: https://www.mapquest.com/us/new-york/glen-island-park-265288484
- Phone: (914) 813-6720 or 6721
When: Friday, May 24th, 10:30 AM. We'll meet in front of the castle located to the right as you enter the parking lot.
Transportation from NYC: Metro-North New Haven Line to New Rochelle Station.
- The 9:37 AM off-peak train from Grand Central arrives in New Rochelle at 10:10 AM.
- Please call Marianne (914-355-6507) to arrange for pick up and ride to Glen Island.
Lunch: Bring your own lunch/snack/water. We'll be picnicking together.
Show & Tell: After lunch we will share stories and sketches during the social part of our day.
Please RSVP to Cathy Gutterman cathygutterman @verizon.net
Looking for us? Call Cathy at 914-625-0766 or Marianne at 914-355-6507
NOTES:
- It can be breezy by the water - you may want to bring a light jacket.
- There are lots of picnic tables, but a stool can offer more options.
- Our next sketching event will be June 3 or 5 at Maryknoll, depending on the weather. Details will be sent closer to the date.
There are no fees. All drawing skill levels are welcome.
