About the Davis Islands
A ceremonial micronation celebrating British maritime tradition, the cultural heritage of the Bronx and the conservation of Pelham Bay.
The founding
The Davis Islands were established on 8 October 2026 as a ceremonial micronation centred on two small, rocky islets in the waters off Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, New York.
The islets carry the ceremonial names Grand Davis Island and Little Davis Island. Their historic geographic name — the one you will find on maps — is the Chimney Sweeps Islands.
Our inspiration
The project takes its style from the small British Overseas Territories, and from Bermuda in particular: the dignified island portal, the Red Ensign, the coat of arms and a maritime volunteer tradition. It pairs that inspiration with something closer to home — the long maritime history of the Bronx shore, from the oystermen and boatbuilders of City Island to the beaches of Pelham Bay Park.
Three themes guide everything the Davis Islands does:
- British maritime tradition — ensigns, insignia and ceremony, enjoyed in good humour.
- Bronx heritage — the history of Pelham Bay, City Island and Long Island Sound.
- Environmental conservation — the herons, cormorants and coastal habitats of the bay.
The Chimney Sweeps Islands
The Chimney Sweeps are a pair of small islands of solid bedrock in the northern part of City Island Harbor. Together with High Island they divide City Island Harbor from Pelham Bay. New York City acquired them in 1939 and they are part of Pelham Bay Park. Read the full history and geography.
What the Davis Islands is not. The islands are physically located within New York City and remain public parkland. The micronation does not claim legal sovereignty, ownership, or recognition from the British Crown, and it is not affiliated with NYC Parks or any government. All offices and titles are honorary.