City Island

In the 1800s, Rock Island known as City Island now became one of the most important shipbuilding spots in the country. Its boatyards were famous for building fast yachts, clippers, and fishing boats, and many wealthy New Yorkers came to the island to have their custom ships made.

Some of the America’s Cup–winning yachts were built right there, bringing worldwide attention to this small Bronx island. The shipyards also built boats used in both World Wars, which gave City Island a key role in America’s history even though it was so small. 

The island’s economy and daily life revolved around the water—almost every family had someone who worked in shipbuilding, fishing, or sailing. Old boat shops and sailor graves from this era still remain on the island, reminding people that in the 19th century, City Island was a powerhouse of the sea.