History Of Burlington Island To Be Celebrated This Weekend

October 11, 2024

A view of Burlington Island looking toward Trenton. Credit: United by Blue

Not far from the Bristol banks of the Delaware River sits forested Burlington Island, a natural landmark and highlight of Burlington City’s 400^th anniversary celebration, Saturday, Oct. 12.

Owned by the City of Burlington, the 300-acre island and its freshwater lake is overseen by a Board of Island Managers and supported by FOBI, the bi-state Friends of Burlington Island.

And FOBI, is an integral part of the commemorative event being held on the city’s waterfront promenade this week. President Patrick Mulhearn, of Bristol, a member of the anniversary steering committee, along with Jim McCreary, president of the Board of Island Managers, will captain their boats for pre-planned tours during the celebration that also includes a wide-range of activities, entertainment, information and food.

Since the history of the island is linked to the Lenni Lenape tribes that lived, hunted and fished along the river — and were on Burlington Island when the first Dutch settlers arrived in 1624, the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania is featured during this week’s 400^th anniversary celebration.

To Mulhearn, a long-time advocate, boater and visitor, the historic island is, simply, “a gem.” He stresses the goals of the five-year-old volunteer organization as he touts the regional value of the site: Preservation of the island in its natural state, free from future development, public accessibility, including educational opportunities – an environmental classroom, perhaps – for students and schools.

Meanwhile, FOBI is actively seeking new members. Mulhearn said his group will be a presence Sat., Oct 19, during the popular “Historic Bristol Day,” The Friends will host a table in the 300 block of Radcliffe Street, offering information about the organization, signing up new members and selling tickets for its fundraiser, which will be held in a private home on Radcliffe Street, following the close of Bristol Day.

Supporters can expect to see many photos and learn more about the centuries-old evolution of Burlington Island, its native tribes, the Dutch fur trading post, the mining operation, amusement park, summer residents, and the fight to end dredge spoil dumping! And its future.

Notably, on both sides of the river, Burlington and Bucks, there is a declared commitment to the special island. If you are interested in joining FOBI or volunteering, or simply want to learn more about the “gem” of the Delaware, please contact FOBI: www.friendsofburlingtonisland.org.

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