Visiting historic sites is a favorite of ours. This week I’m writing about a Florida beach where the crew of a torpedoed ship was rescued in WWII and an iron works town that was established in Copake, New York in 1845. You can spend a little or a lot of time at either location.

TREASURE COAST, FLORIDA

Round Island Beach Park

Did you realize there were attacks to American submarines by German’s in World War II just off the coast of Florida? Neither did we, until we visited Round Island Beach Park, in Vero Beach, Florida.

Overnight on May 5, 1942 the German submarine U-333 attacked the U.S. Tanker Java Arrow, killing two of her crew, just 8 miles off the coast of Round Island Beach Park. Four Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers picked up 22 survivors in their thirty foot fishing boat. They nearly sank while transporting them to the Fort Peirce Coast Guard Station. (The rest of the survivors must have been picked up by another vessel.) There were two other ships hit and sunk by the same U-333 that night, the Halsey (American) and Amazone (Dutch).

Also, in the parking lot you can view remnants of obstacles that were used for training during World War Two. According to the signage, there is the remote possibility you may encounter an weapon or obstacle if it’s washed up on the beach, so everyone is advised to Recognize, Retreat and Report to 911 anything suspicious that washes ashore. Crazy huh? The beach is beautiful though if you choose to chill out there.

HUDSON VALLEY, NEW YORK

Copake Iron Works

Established in 1845 by Lemuel Pomeroy II and his sons, the Copake Iron Works was strategically located near Bash Bish Falls, taking advantage of the area's rich iron ore deposits, abundant timber for charcoal, and water sources. The site flourished, producing specialized products like railcar wheels and plows, especially after connecting to the New York and Harlem railroad tracks. Operations ceased in 1903 and many dilapidated structures were razed, due to safety concerns. But thanks to the efforts of the Friends of Taconic State Park, you can view the restored Furnace, visit the museum and other buildings from the original company town.

The historic site is open daily during daylight hours. For a deeper dive, guided tours are available on weekends and select holidays between 2-4 pm, but only from Memorial Day through mid-November.

For a quick visit, spend about an hour exploring the buildings, museum, and informative signage. If you want an extended adventure, hike the Iron Works Heritage Trail to the former Ore Bed, now a swimming hole, or venture to the scenic Bash Bish Falls. The hike to Bash Bish Falls is easier and picturesque, but the trail to the Falls is reported to be blocked. The full Iron Works Heritage Trail offers a more challenging experience—so gear up with sturdy shoes, tick spray, and water.

CREATOR SPOTLIGHT

The Vagabond Artist

The Vagabond artist dropped out of the rat race, moved to a small Caribbean island and began living. Over the next three - four months he’s hiking through Turkey. Give him a follow if you’re interested in seeing where he hikes to.

Thank you for reading 😄 

We’re on the look out for neat historical sites to visit this Spring. Have any in mind to recommend? Email me or comment below with any suggestions.

‘til next week, happy exploring!
Kathleen

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