Harrison Island

Gazing upon Harrison Island, a sense of mystery washes over you. This private farming island, nestled in Montgomery County, Maryland, holds a rich history. Harrison Island sits prominently between the Potomac River and Ball’s Bluff Battlefield and National Cemetery in Virginia. It dominates the view from the heights of Ball’s Bluff, a silent observer of the battles fought on the mainland. Among the low-lying islands of the lower Potomac, Harrison Island stands out with its permanent private residence, visible near the island’s center. There are no bridges to Harrison Island, further enhancing its secluded nature. It remains closed to the public, a hidden gem in the Potomac River. In 1699, Giles Vandercastel and Burr Harrison, for whom the island is named, ventured to this very island. Their journey was not just about exploration. It was about encountering the Piscataway Indians who called this island home. Imagine their boats approaching the shore, the anticipation of the first contact. The island, much like today, was a haven. A place of trees and open land. A place where history unfolded. Today, the island is a testament to its past. A blend of nature and human presence. Neal Brown, a plumber, along with friends and the Potomac Conservancy, recently acquired the island. They’ve embarked on a mission of restoration, planting thousands of trees and rebuilding wetlands. They work tirelessly, bringing equipment and materials by boat, keeping the spirit of the island alive. Harrison Island stands as a symbol of preservation. A place where the echoes of history mingle with the rustling leaves. A place of quiet beauty, forever protected from the relentless march of development.