The History of Fisher Island

Fisher Island, a 216-acre tropical paradise in Biscayne Bay, is one of the most exclusive and storied communities in the United States. From its humble beginnings as a wedge of land populated with mangroves and coconut palms to becoming the wealthiest zip code in the nation, Fisher Island’s history is a testament to visionaries who shaped its destiny.

Fisher Island 1955

Origins: A Land of Promise

In 1905, Fisher Island began to take shape when Miami received government permission to cut through the barrier island now known as Miami Beach. The cut, created to connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Miami seaport, also produced a new landmass—the beginnings of Fisher Island. Sand dredged from the project expanded the original 21-acre island, which was initially intended for city purposes under a deed restriction.

In 1917, Herman B. Walker purchased the land, selling it a year later to Dana Dorsey, South Florida's first African American millionaire. Dorsey’s foresight in acquiring properties across the region made him a notable figure, but in 1919, Carl Fisher, a developer and founder of Miami Beach, purchased the island.

Carl Fisher

The Vanderbilt Connection

Carl Fisher envisioned a grand future for the island, pouring nearly $5 million into expanding it for a deep-water seaport. However, progress stalled, and in 1927, Fisher made a now-legendary trade with William K. Vanderbilt II: seven acres of Fisher Island for Vanderbilt’s 265-foot yacht, the Eagle. Vanderbilt transformed his portion of the island into a luxurious winter retreat, commissioning a Mediterranean-style mansion designed by renowned architect Maurice Fatio.

The Vanderbilt estate became a playground for the elite, featuring lush gardens, an aviary, a lap pool, and cottages for guests and staff. Vanderbilt’s yacht, nicknamed “The Floating Mansion,” was a centerpiece of the island’s opulence. The main mansion, now an iconic landmark, served as the heart of a lavish lifestyle.

A Changing Legacy

After Vanderbilt’s death in 1944, the island changed hands several times. Industrialist Edward S. Moore, followed by speedboat innovator Garfield “Gar” Wood, further shaped the island’s development. Wood, known for designing PT boats during WWII, added what is now the Garwood Lounge. By the 1960s, Fisher Island became home to various uses, including a University of Miami marine biology lab and oil storage tanks. It wasn’t until the 1980s that developers began to realize its potential as a luxury residential community.

Modern-Day Fisher Island

In 1987, Fisher Island Club officially opened, marking the transformation of the island into a world-class residential enclave. In 2007, a $60 million restoration revitalized the Vanderbilt Mansion and other historic structures, elevating the island’s amenities to match the standards of its discerning residents.

Today, Fisher Island is synonymous with exclusivity and luxury. With approximately 800 residences ranging from $2 million to $40 million, the island offers unparalleled privacy, accessible only by ferry or private yacht. Residents hail from over 40 countries, enjoying a private club, a P.B. Dye-designed golf course, and seven restaurants.

Fisher Island

A Legacy of Excellence

Fisher Island’s evolution from a simple barrier island to a premier destination reflects the vision and ambition of those who shaped it. Whether through Vanderbilt’s grandeur, Gar Wood’s innovations, or modern development efforts, Fisher Island continues to symbolize luxury and a storied past that few places can rival.

From its breathtaking landscapes to its rich history, Fisher Island remains a jewel of Biscayne Bay, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.

The History of Fisher Island