Calumet Island, River island in Clayton, New York
Calumet Island is a river island within the St. Lawrence River near Clayton, surrounded by clear waters and featuring a distinctive water tower that rises 82 feet (25 meters). The structure remains visible from the mainland shores and serves as a notable landmark on the waterway.
The island came to attention in 1893 when tobacco magnate Charles G. Emery built a large castle with 30 rooms there. This construction marked the start of private estate development in the region.
The name Calumet comes from a French word for Native American ceremonial pipes, reflecting how people recognized the island's elongated shape across the river.
Access to the island requires a boat, and several marinas and launching points are available in Clayton for visitors. It is helpful to check conditions on the river and plan the timing of a visit around water activity.
The water tower was built during the island's golden era and stands as one of the few original structures remaining from the 1890s castle complex. Many visitors overlook how this tower marks the start of multiple layers of development on the island.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
