Ahway Island is a volcanic isle, known for its scenic landscapes and tight-knit community. First populated in 1925 by a small group of founding families, Ahway Island was built on a commitment to creating a safe and welcoming haven for all inhabitants. To foster neighborly connection, the Ahway Island founders designed a walkable downtown with homes nestled nearby.
The island itself is defined by multiple unique regions. The Ahway Island Forest, located in the center of the island, is a mixed coniferous forest, populated by majestic pine trees and stately oaks, as well as many other varieties of trees, shrubs and flowering plants thriving in the rich volcanic soil. To the north and northwest lie the Ahway Island Mountains, formed by the accumulation of erupted volcanic materials such as lava, ash and rock fragments. The northeast flatland is home to a protected sanctuary area, offering a vital habitat to a variety of animals. Ahway Island town is situated in the south, with sunlit beaches and scenic hiking trails directly to the east.
Ahway Island began as a small community with just a handful of buildings. The first of these were the civic building, the library, the school, the park and pavilion, and the grocery store. The civic building offered community services and provided a place for town meetings and governance. The park and its pavilion were the designated social gathering spot. The school offered basic education for the island’s children, and the library housed a modest collection of books and local records. The grocery store supplied everyday essentials for the early residents. Over time, the civic building and the library have undergone significant renovations that expanded their size well beyond their original modest footprints. The original school was lost to a fire and later rebuilt as the current school building. And the original grocery store has been transformed into the beloved Amato’s Ice Cream shop.
To this day, although Ahway Island has grown considerably from its humble beginnings, Ahway Islanders remain committed to having a strong community grounded in kindness and generosity.