HISTORY REPEATING

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.  In fact, you could probably only get the handful of nails for a buck these days.  Get the full story on this unique piece of NYC history by taking a tour of the island with author and personal tour guide Ann Buttenwieser, along with an autographed copy of her book, Governors Island: The Jewel of New York Harbor.