The Oaktagon Tree House is used for educational programs, retreats, workshops, community meetings, and extended vacation stays. Completed in 2015, the Oaktagon gets its name because it is a custom-built, eight-sided structure
that surrounds a living Oak tree. (We call her Annie Oakley!). The large deck looks out through the trees and is perfect for
outdoor dining. Thanks to the generosity of many donors and volunteers, this yurt-style building is a unique example of
what 1BSI living is all about.
1BSI has over 1 mile of
hiking trails. The Ancient Walk is the main trail and runs down the center ridge of the island. Sunrise
and Sunset paths follow the perimeter. Pack a lunch and find a spot to enjoy the afternoon.
Completed in 2010, this 14' x 14' solid cedar gazebo is a great gathering place for a ceremony, a talk
with a large group, or just dry cover on a warm rainy day.
The most popular place on the island
on a hot July day is the rope swing. Kids of all ages have enjoyed this old-fashioned pastime for centuries.
Safety note: To use the rope swing safely, you'll need to have the upper body strength to do one chin up.
(If you can't pull off a chin up, practice till you can, and THEN have fun on the rope swing!)
Enjoy a quiet romantic
evening at one of the small fire pits, or join a gathering at the Loon Point fire pit for s'mores,
storytelling, and star gazing. 
This composting toilet station is the result of the 1BSI Outhouse Design Competition at Monmouth Academy. It is
a two stall, handicap accessible, attractive restroom facility that solves the biggest typical concern with
most off-the-grid public restrooms: It doesn't smell like an outhouse! These toilets ensure cost effective,
ecologically responsible, and sanitary conversion of island visitors' waste to compost that is used to
fertilize the soil of the island over time. The building is designed by JMcPhee Architects for: a practical
solution to meet the needs of the many island visitors; an appealing and imaginative design (as best as
a toilet can be); and as a working demonstration and educational tool that continues to teach visitors
about meeting human needs with minimal impact on Mother Nature. Donations for the building materials helped
leverage volunteer labor from the community, and Monmouth Academy student interns earned academic credit
for participating in the research, design, and fabrication of this building.
