Today In Maryland’s History –  The First Settlers Arrive On St. Clement’s Island

COLTON’S POINT, Md. — Following their departure from England in November 1633, the first group of Maryland colonists finally touched down on St. Clement’s Island on March 25, 1634. More than 100 Maryland colonists sailed to America on the Ark and Dove, two historic vessels that kept the settlers safe on their long journey.

The 400-ton Ark was a massive ship, while the Dove was much smaller at only about 40 tons. Cecil Calvert commissioned both the Ark and the Dove for the goal of creating a colony that would be friendly toward Catholics, a religion that often faced persecution in England throughout the 1600s.

The journey to St. Clement’s Island, and Maryland as a whole, was not always a simple one. At one point, the Ark and Dove became separated for many weeks during the voyage, but eventually found each other before reaching their final destination.

Though St. Clement’s Island wouldn’t become the final settlement for the Maryland colonists, the settlers spent a few days on the island, even celebrating the first Roman Catholic Mass of Thanksgiving to be held in the original English-speaking colonies on March 25.

Leonard Calvert, the brother of Cecil Calvert, led the expedition into the Potomac River and St. Clement’s Island, guiding the settlers to their new life in the colonies. After leaving St. Clement’s Island, the colonists soon settled in St. Mary’s City, Maryland’s first capital, and the rest is history.

Fun fact: Due to the incredible importance of March 25 in Maryland history, the date has been declared Maryland Day.

What Is St. Clement’s Island Today?

In the modern day, St. Clement’s Island has been converted into a 40-acre state park nestled along the Potomac River. The island is only accessible by boat, so visitors often take a water taxi from the St. Clement’s Island Museum to travel there.

Alongside hiking trails and scenic nature, St. Clement’s Island also features a 40-foot cross and a replica of the Blackistone Lighthouse, which burned down in the 1900s. Though not located on the island itself, the St. Clement’s Island Museum provides a wealth of context into the historic land’s past.

Additionally, the Maryland Dove that many of the colonists sailed on has received a replica, and visitors can even ride on it during the warmer months of the year.

Visit Maryland.gov to learn more about St. Clement’s Island State Park.

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