Barbadoes Island

Barbadoes Island is a river island spanning about 90 acres in the Schuylkill River, featuring a blend of natural terrain alongside transportation infrastructure including U.S. Route 202. The island connects to the mainland through a private bridge at Haws Avenue.

The University of Pennsylvania acquired the island in the 1700s, and later John Markley purchased it in the early 1800s for farming. From 1926 to 1997, a power plant operated here and housed one of the largest gas turbines in the United States during the 1960s.

During the 1800s, the island became a recreational center with horse racing events, militia parades, and floating wooden baths for swimming activities.

Access to the island is limited to the private bridge at Haws Avenue, so visitors should check current access rules before planning a visit. You may need prior permission or to arrange an appointment to explore the site.

From 1926 to 1997, the island hosted a power plant that contained the largest gas turbine in the United States during the 1960s.