My summer of '99 was one of the best summers I have ever had. The amazing thing about Block Island is that even though you may live here, the urge never stops to tell others how wonderful it is! As I am writing this, I am having a spectacular summer day... a perfect day for biking, fishing, swimming, clamming, tennis, walking your dog, kayaking, even sailing. Or better yet, finding a nice quiet spot on the beach, of 17 miles of beach and just "kicking back" with my best friend "Jake", (He's a good boy). One may feel like having stepping back in time when touring thou out Block Island, with just a little imagination, aided by the Victorian homes, hotels, b&b's, the small shops, stone walls, rolling hills and the horse-drawn carriages. Yes, one would to suspect that Block Island is, indeed, a step back into an earlier, enchanting era.
Block Island is a one-of-a-kind place, completely surrounded by the Atlantic, ten miles off the southern shore of Rhode Island, and accessible ONLY by ferry and plane. Block Island itself was formed some ten thousand years ago during the last ice age, when glaciers drove their way across the East Coast and left the island behind as a remnant. Today, Block Island is a land of sweeping views and a fragile ecosystem, preserved by the careful residents of the island for all to share and enjoy. During the winter, the native population of this tiny island is only 800 and during the summer season the population grows to a near 20,000 tourist. Due to the forces of nature and geology that shape this land, there is no other place quite like it on earth.
The lodgings belie their Victorian appearance; they are comfortable, convenient, some even have Jacuzzis, like Ann Law's "The Blue Dory Inn" on Dodge Street. The restaurants are superb from "Take-Out" to that found in the most romantic of all settings and truly casual...... always, there is the serenity, the ocean, the healing fresh clean air and crystal clear nighttime skies.
There is no real night life or entertainment on the Island, because Block Island is more daytime outdoor activities that makes life on this island so special, but you can always go to the grand old "National Hotel" famous 'porch' overlooking the Atlantic Ocean located in the heart of Old Harbor to have 'one for the road'. There is a movie theater and a rock/dance club, but mostly what a small town offers, like; fairs, auctions and a real home town "4th of July Parade" that does this island so proud! There was a spectacular fireworks display during this year’s '4th of July' celebration. Most of the B&B's are now year-round and there are some four star dining, such as 'The Atlantic Inn Restaurant' - elegant and romantic also spectacular sunsets ocean views...... and let's not forget 'Dead Eye Dick's' on Payne's Dock in New Harbor, known for the best fish on the Block Island. So may it be spring, summer, fall or winter, Block Island is the ultimate escape.
Now enjoy the photos I took in the "Summer of '99" below, and on the next few pages, from time to time I will be adding more as I am returning for more spectacular summers of fun and eats! With my buddy and best friend JAKE!
