The Mason family owned it for 125 years. In the early 1800's, John Mason built a brick mansion and cultivated extensive gardens. The Masons also operated a ferry from the island to Georgetown. For years after that the island was a picnic resort, except during the Civil War when black and white Union Army troops were stationed here. Today, trails lead through the marsh, swamp and forest.
Visitors often see birds or small mammals.
The outdoor memorial, with Roosevelt's thought provoking quotes and statue, captures the spirit of this energetic President who was ahead of his time. At age eight, he established his very own natural history museum, with items gathered from neighborhood and family travels. The personal challenges of asthma and poor eyesight drove Roosevelt to make the most of his strengths. By the time of his presidency, he was well known as an outstanding naturalist and outdoorsman. This background would prepare him for the challenges of his administration.