Constitution Island is part of West Point, the United States Military Academy, a National Registered Landmark. The Island is most famous for the Great Chain that was placed across the Hudson during the Revolutionary War and the Warner family who lived on the Island during the 19th century. The Warner House and ruins of the Revolutionary War fortifications are the primary points of interest. The Island’s 280 acres are covered with hiking trails that are enjoyed by the Island’s visitors. The Constitution Island Association was founded in 1916 to preserve and protect the history and traditions of this unique American site.

Links to the Past

“In 1778, less than halfway through the Revolutionary War, the Americans were able to forge a huge iron chain which they successfully stretched across the Hudson River from West Point to Constitution Island. For five years the 80-ton chain kept the British warships from attacking the inhabitants of the upper Hudson Valley. To celebrate the 225th anniversary of the installation of the Great West Point Chain, the Constitution Island Association commissioned this miniature Great Chain Bracelet.”

Lincoln Diamant, Author of “Chaining the Hudson”