Harbor Defenses of New York later became known as the first system of US seacoast fortifications. In New York this was initially limited to the large Fort Jay on Governors Island, along with some small batteries on Oyster Island (later Ellis Island) and Bedloe's Island (later Liberty Island). These were simple earthworks at the time. Congress contributed to building Fort Jay in 1797, and in 1800 the state sold the fort, Governors Island, and Bedloe's Island to the federal government for one dollar. Oyster Island was similarly transferred in 1808. The federal government commenced building improved stone forts at all three locations. In June 1807,
Liberty Weekend this party as well. He also stated that it was his close family, friends and associates who were occupying the ship with him and Lyn and watching the event via closed-circuit TV. Liberty Weekend Liberty Weekend was a four-day celebration of the 1984 restoration and the centenary of the Statue of Liberty ("Liberty Enlightening the World") in New York City. It began on July 3, 1986 and ended on July 6. The Opening Ceremonies of Liberty Weekend were held on July 3, 1986 at Governor's Island in New York Harbor. French President François Mitterrand was on hand to give his