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Castle Williams and its collection

Castle Williams
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Castle Williams is a unique circular fortification made of red sandstone, located on the northwest tip of Governors Island. This strategic location at the entrance of New York Harbor makes it a significant landmark in the area. The fort is part of a system of forts designed and built in the early 19th century to protect New York City from naval attacks.

The Creation of Castle Williams

The design and construction of Castle Williams took place between 1807 and 1811. The project was led by Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Williams, who later became a Colonel. Williams was the chief engineer of the Corps of Engineers and the first superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point. His expertise and leadership played a crucial role in the creation of this historic fort.

Castle Williams as a National Monument

In 2003, the administration of Castle Williams, along with the neighboring Fort Jay, was transferred to the National Park Service. Both are part of the Governors Island National Monument. Furthermore, Castle Williams is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its historical significance and value.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Castle Historic house

#20 Free museums in New York #39 History & Anthropology in New York #3 Castle in New York #31 Historic houses in New York #25 Free museums in New York State #68 History & Anthropology in New York State #5 Castle in New York State #52 Historic houses in New York State #13 Castle in United States

#20 Free museums in New York #39 History & Anthropology in New York #3 Castle in New York #31 Historic houses in New York #25 Free museums in New York State #68 History & Anthropology in New York State #5 Castle in New York State #52 Historic houses in New York State #13 Castle in United States

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Castle Williams
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NY 10004 New York
New York

Images of Castle Williams

Visitor information Castle Williams

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday
10:00 – 17:00
Sunday
10:00 – 17:00
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Admission

0+Free
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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Castle Williams.

Location & Map

-, New York

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Exhibitions

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Castle Williams Reviews

Castle Williams has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Castle Williams, located on Governors Island in New York Harbor, offers visitors a look into 19th-century military architecture and history. This circular fortification, built between 1807 and 1811, served various purposes throughout its lifetime, including as a military prison during the Civil War.

    The structure itself is impressive, with its thick stone walls and strategic positioning overlooking the harbor. Visitors can explore the different levels of the fort, including the gun emplacements and former prison cells. The National Park Service provides informative tours that explain the fort's significance in American history and its role in defending New York City.

    While the castle offers interesting historical insights, some visitors note that the experience can be somewhat limited without a guided tour. The exhibits are relatively basic, and some areas of the fort may not be accessible due to ongoing preservation efforts. The lack of extensive modern amenities or interactive displays might disappoint those expecting a more elaborate museum experience.

    The views from Castle Williams are a highlight, offering panoramic vistas of the New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and the Manhattan skyline. This makes for excellent photo opportunities and adds value to the visit.

    Access to Castle Williams is seasonal and weather-dependent, which can be inconvenient for some visitors. Additionally, reaching Governors Island requires a ferry ride, which some find adds to the experience, while others see it as an extra hurdle.

    Overall, Castle Williams provides an educational experience for history enthusiasts and those interested in military architecture. While it may not offer the depth or interactivity of larger museums, its historical significance and unique location make it a worthwhile stop for many visitors to New York City.

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