Strawberry Island
Strawberry Island is located in the Niagara River just south or Grand Island, west of Riverside and Blackrock in Buffalo, NY. The name “Strawberry Island” is mentioned as early as 1750, although the origin of the name is not clear. The island was used by British forces during the War of 1812 as a staging area for a siege of Buffalo in 1814 when most of Buffalo was burnt down. Most of Buffalo’s housing was rebuilt after that, and the island was purchased from the Seneca Nation in 1815. The island once nearly 200 acres has been greatly reduced due to gravel mining. Latter it became a very popular boating attraction but is now off limits to motorized boats due to wildlife concerns and protecting nesting Bald Eagles. Best views of the island are from homes located along Niagara street in Black Rock.