Islands are often filled with long stretches of beaches spanning over miles — but not always.
Many islands around the world are quite small, with the capacity to hold very little.
The Unwavering Charm of Just Room Enough Island
Just Room Enough Island spans just around 3,300 square feet, a size that is astonishingly diminutive yet brimming with uniqueness. Nestled between the United States and Canada in Alexandria Bay, New York, this island is known colloquially as Hub Island, part of the picturesque 1,864 isles comprising the famed Thousand Islands. The small cottage and lone tree that occupy this space create a whimsical contrast against the vast expanse of the Saint Lawrence River.
A Testament to Human Ingenuity
This charming island was acquired by the Sizeland family in the 1950s. Over the years, they crafted the cozy cottage and nurtured the solitary tree that holds steadfast against the elements. The island’s official name, Just Room Enough Island, continues to evoke curiosity and joy, echoing the family’s light-hearted spirit.
Substantial interest sprang from tourists and adventurers alike, eager to witness this delightful anomaly. From a distance, it adorns the view for those enjoying a leisurely boat ride on the river, carving memories into the canvas of time. As the Washington Post aptly noted in 2010, “One misstep and you’re swimming,” highlighting the compact nature of a space so closely resembling a tennis court.
Contrasting Legacies: Bishop Rock
For a time, Bishop Rock claimed the title of the world’s smallest inhabited island. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, west of the Isles of Scilly, it once served as a crucial lighthouse. Now automated, it necessitated no human presence, relinquishing its status as a bustling beacon for mariners. A turn of fate, perhaps, as its solitary charm transitions into the annals of history.
More Miniature Islands Worth Noting
Other small islands like Sea Lion Island and Dangar Island also capture the imagination. Sea Lion Island, part of the Falkland archipelago, boasts a single lodge and thrives with wildlife. The lush habitats foster a thriving ecosystem, inviting nature enthusiasts and photographers to explore its wonders.
Dangar Island in Australia is slightly larger, welcoming around 300 residents on its 75-acre sprawl. The vibrant community, rich with flora and fauna, reflects a lifestyle that harmonizes with its serene surroundings, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility without the hustle of major cities.
Reflecting on the Beauty of Simplicity
These islands, though small and seemingly insignificant in the grand scheme of geography, carry stories that resonate deeply. They invite introspection, urging one to appreciate the simplicity and beauty that exist in life’s more modest offerings. Just as Just Room Enough Island embraces its limited space, so too does it teach us that meaningful things often come in the most unexpected forms.
Whether it’s a cozy cottage on an islet or a lodge on a wildlife-rich haven, each locale is a reminder that home can sometimes be defined not by size but by the warmth and memories created within that space.
