Alsen

Alsen, an island in the Baltic, off the coast of Sleswick. Formerly Danish, it became Prussian in 1864. Its greatest length is 19 miles; its greatest breadth 12; and its area is 121 sq. m. Pop. 25,000, almost all Danish-speaking. The island, one of the finest in the Baltic, has a picturesque appearance, is very fertile, with rich woods, and numerous lakes abounding in fish. The chief town is Sonderborg, with an excellent harbour, and a population of 6000.