Long Island (click to enlarge)
Long Island is one of only five islands within Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area that is closed to the public. Up until 2015 it was being used by various Boston social service programs, including a homeless shelter and drug rehab center. It was connected to Moon Island—another restricted island—by a bridge, but due to deteriorating condition the bridge was demolished in March 2015. This forced the relocation of all social service programs. Only a youth summer camp and a small farm remain, and these are serviced by charter boats.
Social Services buildings
Youth summer camp
Long Island was the home of Fort Strong, which was built in the 1890s. Seven batteries from the same time period are still on the island, though all are in ruins. A Nike Missile station operated here in the 1950s and 60s.
At the northeastern tip of the island is the Long Island Head Lighthouse that was built in 1900. It is the fourth lighthouse on this spot—the original was erected in 1819.
Location of the Long Island Head Lighthouse and one of seven artillery batteries
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Last updated on January 15, 2024
