Liberty Island: A Historic 12-Acre Site in New York Harbor

Nestled in the heart of New York Harbor, Liberty Island is a 12-acre landmark that holds one of the most enduring symbols of freedom in the world — the Statue of Liberty. This small but powerful island has welcomed millions of visitors from around the globe, standing as a beacon of hope, democracy, and the American dream.

Originally known as Bedloe’s Island, it was officially renamed Liberty Island in 1956, in honor of its most iconic resident. Today, the island is not only a historic site but a deeply meaningful destination, offering breathtaking views, rich stories, and a glimpse into the soul of a nation.

To explore more about the history, symbolism, and features of the monument itself, visit our Statue of Liberty main page.

Ownership Dispute between States

The waters around the Island are under the jurisdiction of the state of New Jersey. However, the island itself falls under the jurisdiction of the state of New York. This has caused disputes between the two states. New Jersey has raised the issue several times in a bid to gain jurisdiction over Liberty Island or get co-jurisdiction along with New York. However, this attempt has not failed so far.

The island itself is considered federal property and has been so since the early 19th century.

Early History and Bedloe Island

The Native American Lenape people originally lived in the region around the Island. When the Dutch settlers arrived, they brought the island under their settlement.

When the English took over the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam, the island passed to English control.It was initially granted to Captain Robert Needham by the English governor.Needham later sold it in 1667 to Isaac Bedloe and the island was named after him to ‘Bedloe Island’.

It passed through the hands of various private owners before it was purchased by the City of New York in 1756.

Under the Federal Government

After the United States had come into being, a need was felt to fortify New York by establishing a base on the Island. To this end, the island was purchased by the federal government in 1800. A fort with an 11-point star shape was constructed on the island.

It was named Fort Wood and played a role as a defensive fortification against the British during the War of 1812. Although the fort remained an important military base during the early 19th century, its importance had declined by the last quarter of the century.

It became obsolete and abandoned. The island, located at a place where immigrants arriving at New York can easily see it, was then chosen as the site for the ‘Statue of Liberty’.

The Statue of Liberty

In 1885, the Statue of Liberty arrived in the United States. The statue was a gift to the people of the United States from France. Frederic Auguste Barholdi, the sculptor of the statue, recommended the Liberty Island as the site for the statue’s erection.

The U.S. government consented and preparations were made on the island for the statue. A special pedestal was constructed on which to erect the statue. It was finally erected and unveiled in a ceremony in 1886.

The island was then renamed from ‘Bedloe Island’ to ‘Liberty Island’. Today, the National Park Service has jurisdiction and management of the entire island.

What is Liberty Island and where is it located?

Liberty Island is a 12-acre island in New York Harbor, best known as the home of the Statue of Liberty. It is situated near the southern tip of Manhattan.

Can visitors go inside the Statue of Liberty from Liberty Island?

Yes, visitors can access the pedestal and, with advanced reservations, climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty from Liberty Island.

Is Liberty Island part of New York or New Jersey?

Although it is geographically closer to New Jersey, Liberty Island is officially part of New York State.

How do you get to Liberty Island?

You can reach Liberty Island by taking a ferry operated by Statue City Cruises from either Battery Park in New York or Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

What else can visitors see on Liberty Island besides the Statue of Liberty?

In addition to the statue, visitors can explore the Statue of Liberty Museum, enjoy scenic views of New York Harbor, and learn about the island’s history and symbolism.

Is there an entrance fee to visit Liberty Island?

Access to Liberty Island is free, but there is a charge for the ferry ride and for pedestal or crown access.

Statue of Liberty