A short tram ride from Manhattan brings you to Historic Roosevelt Island situated between Manhattan and Queens on the East river in New York City offering spectacular views of both boroughs. The islands history began in the mid 1600's with the purchase of the island from the Native Americans who called it Minnahanonck (nice island.) It's history still lives on with some of it's original buildings from the 1800's either restored or left as beautiful ruins as you will see in the photos below. FYI, the island has had many names with Roosevelt the latest and the last(?) In record order they are: Minnahanonck; Hogs Island, Mannings Island, Blackwell's island,Welfare Island and finally in 1973 it was changed to Roosevelt Island. Enjoy this lovely little city island and buy some photos for future history!!! To purchase a photo in this gallery just click on "Buy".