Welcome!

IN 1682 a charter was written creating the “Managers and Treasurer of the School Fund for the Education of Youth in the City of Burlington”. Any funds collected would help fund education in the City of Burlington. This makes the Board of Island Mangers older then the United States! The date on our Charter indicates the Board is the oldest established school funding entity in the United States. We have been contributing to the youth of the City ever since.

In the past the Island has been home to many diverse settlements, particularly in the early days. There was a called Fort Wilhemus, established in 1628 by the Swedes. The Island has a rich Indian heritage and used to be called Matinicunk Island. The Island was home to both houses and farms. Later, as any local historian will tell you, there was an amusement park. At the turn of the century most amusement parks were made of wood, after two devastating fires, no one wanted to rebuild.

Few pieces remain of the original amusements. Visitors to the island can still see a cement double circle that was used for a boat ride. However, many items have been removed over the years. The Carousel that once stood on Burlington Island was sold to Seaside Heights New Jersey, where it withstood both Hurricane Sandi and another devistating fire. Eventually the City leased the southern portion of the Island to the Warner Company who dredged the Island for sand…thus creating the 100 acre lake. Of course this is a brief overview of the vast history of the island. We will recommend some books at another time.

In 1992 Senator Diane changed the Board's Charter to make leasing the Island a viable option. Because of that, the City of Burlington and The Board of Island Managers were able to enter into a lease for the first time since 1852. This was the next important step after changing the maximum lease term in our Charter and speed development by reducing red tape. The reason that the lease is a factor; half of the island is owned by the City of Burlington. It is under the Green Acres program.  It will also create problems for developers.

Volunteers have helped clear over two miles of trails on the island. During our first two cleanups debris and trash including metal, cans, plastic and other items were removed. Boy Scout troops have performed tasks as well. We are always looking for more help.

The Board has been granted 501(c)3 status. Although the Board predates the tax law referenced we wished to have official status to allow more donations and apply for grants.

We are currently beginning to move forward on new projects and are looking for new help and volunteers. Please feel free to contact us and your donations are always welcome!