There have been many educated (and not) guesses regarding where the ancient city of Atlantis may actually be hidden underwater. While the city still remains to be seen both literally and figuratively, that doesn't mean there aren't other cities that have been covered by water and forgotten. In Cape Cod, there is one such city that only reveals itself at low tide - or, what's left of it, anyway.

The story of Billingsgate Island reads like an Atlantis story, with its main lighthouse facing destruction not once, not twice, but multiple times following its construction. Along with these ruins, visitors can sometimes see remnants of those who once lived on the island, making it an eerie, yet cool, place to visit on Cape Cod.

The Fated And Fascinating History Of Billingsgate Island, AKA The 'Atlantis Of Cape Cod'

Roughly a century ago, Cape Cod was home to more than just water - there was an actual island in the middle. This was known as Billingsgate Island, and it wasn't just any small island. It was inhabited by residents who owned houses there as well as being what many people thought would be a permanent fixture in Cape Cod, which is what makes its disappearance that much more tragic. The island itself was once home to 60 acres of land which is quite significant considering the size of Cape Cod Bay and was known for being a healthy fishing village. According to CapeCod.com, the island would see upwards of 80 people - which was a lot for an island such as this - during the peak summer months.

As time went on and the island became more popular, it was determined that a lighthouse would be built in 1822. The 19th century was when Billingsgate Island saw its largest population and highest levels of tourism, and it was a well-known attraction for those visiting Cape Cod. With the introduction of plans for a lighthouse, it was believed that Billingsgate Island was bound to continue being a hot summer attraction, with the lighthouse keeper maintaining a permanent residence on the island. However, the lighthouse was only the beginning and, soon enough, the island saw 30 residential homes, a school, oil works, a general store, and even a baseball team.

  • Fun Fact: The baseball team that played on Billingsgate Island rowed across Cape Cod Bay to play teams from the Outer Cape, making sporting events quite a tourist draw.

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The Downfall And Eventually Washing Away Of Cape Cod's Lost Island Community

Unfortunately, the construction of the lighthouse was the last good thing to come of Billingsgate Island. Not long after its construction was completed, people began noticing something strange on the island. The erosion rate of its beaches seemed to be happening at a faster rate which caused some unease among those who had permanent residences on the island, such as its fishermen.

Despite the erosion, many people remained on the island until the end of the 19th century. However, following this, many began to leave as the water crept closer and closer to their backdoors - literally. The first to go were the fishermen, followed by the residents who lost their homes one by one as they were eventually swept out into the bay. Although the lighthouse was moved to keep it from falling into the bay, this measure was only a short-term solution and, eventually, it, too, met the same fate. The island was finally submerged by 1942, earning it the nickname of the 'Cape Cod Atlantis.'

  • Fact: The lighthouse was flooded three separate times during the 190th century - 1873, 1875, and 1882.

Visiting Billingsgate Island Today

While the island remains flooded and exists mostly underwater today, parts of it can be seen during low tide in Cape Cod Bay. It is still a tourist attraction for those who are fascinated by the story of Cape Cod's Atlantis, and it's also a popular spot for those who enjoy shellfishing. Back in 1928, the island was turned into a bird sanctuary, so it's a great place for birdwatchers and nature lovers, as well.

Those visiting the island might be able to find anything from masonry blocks to old household objects that have been left behind. Therefore, it's a great place for avid beachcombers, as well! Finding an artifact left over from the Billingsgate Cottages is a true treat for those visiting. The remains of the island can be reached by boat and at low tide, the sandbar will be visible.