The galleries of the Henry L. Ferguson Museum offer different perspectives on Fishers Island: an archaeological exhibition focuses on Indigenous populations, while the natural history gallery showcases coastal habitats and other marine topics. The museum trails, as well as the Brickyard Pond Trail and Clay Pit Trail, add walks, island history and landscapes in their own distinct ways. If you are looking for a vacation rental on Fishers Island, thinking about what interests you most can help: Would you like to explore the museum exhibits in greater depth, learn about nature on guided walks, or take in the island’s industrial past and varied landscapes as you walk?
Museum Galleries: Archaeology and Natural History
The Charles B. Ferguson Archaeology Gallery at the Henry L. Ferguson Museum presents current knowledge about the Indigenous populations of Fishers Island. The museum’s Natural History Gallery offers a different perspective: four marine dioramas depict seagrass meadows, rocky shores, sand flats and salt marshes. Other exhibits in this gallery explore oyster farming, recreational fishing, commercial fishing and geology.
The H. L. Ferguson Museum offers annual exhibitions, lectures, children’s programs and nature trails. The museum also hosts nature walks on Fishers Island, led by Terry McNamara and guest naturalists, focusing on birds and wild plants. Individual offerings may change. If you are planning to attend a particular lecture or walk, check the current program in advance.
Nature Trails and Recreational Path
The Henry L. Ferguson Museum’s land-trust nature trails are intended for the Fishers Island community and visitors who want to hike and learn more about the island’s diverse flora and fauna. The trail system is open to community members and visitors. Its trails run all the way from the south side to the north side of Fishers Island and can be explored on foot.
The recreational path built by the Fishers Island Recreational Path Foundation serves a different purpose: It is 4.2 miles long and open exclusively to pedestrians, strollers and bicycles. E-bikes are not allowed. As access rules may change, check them before using the path.
Industrial History and Views
The Brickyard Pond Trail offers a chance to experience Fishers Island’s history on a walk. The trail is located on a 15.5-acre site where one of the largest brickyards in the entire northeastern United States once stood. The former brickyard gives the trail a tangible historical connection.
The Clay Pit Trail offers a different experience: It passes the clay pits and leads to a large oak bench. From there, the unobstructed view stretches over the pits to Block Island Sound in the distance. The difference between the two trails is clear: the Brickyard Pond Trail focuses on the history of the brickyard, while the Clay Pit Trail highlights the clay-pit landscape and views toward the Sound.
Discover more destinations: Copiague, Quogue, Centereach, Amagansett, Shelter Island, Hauppauge, Peconic, Huntington
Go to the main travel overview: Suffolk.
