Pollepel Island, River island in Hudson River, United States.
Pollepel Island is a six-acre plot in the Hudson River featuring castle ruins made of stone walls, turrets, and fortifications rising from the river's eastern bank. The structure displays Gothic Revival architecture with multiple defensive features built into its design.
Businessman Francis Bannerman VI purchased the island in 1900 and built a military surplus warehouse designed to look like a castle between 1901 and 1918. A major explosion in 1920 caused significant damage to portions of the structure.
The castle reflects Gothic Revival style that was fashionable in the early 1900s, blending medieval European design with the practical needs of an American military warehouse. Visitors can observe how these architectural choices created a structure that looks both historic and industrial.
Guided boat tours departing from Beacon, New York, offer access to the island from May through October during the warmer months. Wear sturdy shoes since exploring the crumbling ruins requires careful footing.
The structure originally stored military items including cannons, uniforms, and Civil War weapons that Bannerman collected and sold. The 1920 explosion occurred while ammunition and explosives were inside, explaining the extensive damage left standing today.
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