Squaw Island, beyond this pier, is the smallest state park in New York State. The area is the birthplace of the Seneca Indian Nation, Keepers of the Western Gate of the Iroquois League. According to legend, during General Sullivan’s invasion of the Senecas’ home in 1779, Seneca wives and children sought refuge on the island. Once much larger, the island was reduced to its present size by the elements, and through the efforts of a group of local citizens led by Clifford E. Murphy, a Canandaigua businessman and civic leader, it was protected against further erosion for the enjoyment of posterity.