Swains Island, Coral atoll in American Samoa, United States
The circular atoll contains a freshwater lagoon and encompasses 1.8 kilometers in length and 1.4 kilometers in width.
Captain William Hudson of the USS Peacock discovered and documented the island during the United States Exploring Expedition in 1841.
The Jennings family established a copra plantation in 1856 and maintained control over the island for multiple generations.
The island remains uninhabited since 2008, with periodic visits from researchers and members of the Jennings family.
The freshwater lagoon contains two distinct fish species and supports a substantial white tern breeding population.
Location: American Samoa
Elevation above the sea: 3.5 m
Part of: Tokelau Islands
GPS coordinates: -11.05556,-171.07778
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:03
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