1889 Map of Block Island

About this map

New Shoreham encompasses the entirety of this 1880s island survey, capturing a maritime landscape defined by its vital aids to navigation and isolated settlement patterns. The central village of Centre stands as the primary hub of activity, while the coastline is dotted with crucial safety installations including the Block Island N.L.H. at the northern tip and the Block Island S.E.L.H. near the southern cliffs. A maritime infrastructure is further evidenced by multiple L.S. Station outposts positioned for coastal rescue operations. The interior geography is shaped by numerous water bodies like Great Salt Pond, Chagum Pond, and Sands Pond, which punctuate the hilly terrain rising toward Beacon Hill. This survey provides a rare look at the island's topography before modern coastal development, documenting every point from Sandy Point to Black Rock Point and the quiet waters of The Harbor.