TREASURE ISLAND

In 1637, Holland’s Wouter Van Twiller purchased Governors Island from the Native Americans of Manhatas for two ax heads, a string of beads, and a handful of nails.  Through the years, it would become the site of a British fort, a Confederate prison, a U.S. Army and Coast Guard station, and a venue for the Cold War talks between Reagan and Gorbachev.  Then, in 2003, the people of Manahatas—now known as Manhattan—bought Governors Island back for $1…just about an even trade.  Now, the island has been reinvented yet again, as a park and cultural Mecca for New Yorkers and visitors.  Get the full story on this unique part of NYC by taking a tour of the island with noted urban planning expert and author Ann Buttenwieser, receive an autographed copy of her celebrated book, Governors Island: The Jewel of New York Harbor.