The Governors Island Geocaching and Archaeological Society (GIGAS) is a community of enthusiastic volunteers that love to explore and uncover the hidden secrets of Governors Island.

GIGAS began in 2005, shortly after the island opened to the public for the first time. Excited by the opportunity to finally access a historic piece of land, we began meeting up periodically to explore the island together. Using metal detectors and other tools, we are able (with permission) to excavate fascinating artifacts that revealed hidden aspects of the island’s own past–from a Native American stomping ground to heavily fortified military base–while at the same time broadening our understanding of New York City’s history.

We are not affiliated with the Trust for Governors Island, The Friends of Governors Island, the National Park Service or any official organization that manages the island. We do work closely with them to ensure that any significant finds are shared with historians, scientists, urban planners and other likeminded communities.

Interested in joining GIGAS or learning more? Please email us at gigastour [at] gmail dot com.