"First Stop" Saint Clements Island by grandmaR

Saint Clements Island Travel Guide: 5 reviews and 47 photos

1934 Cross commemorating the first Landing

Sign about the lighthouse

When the Ark and the Dove first arrived in the Potomac, they first stopped at this island, which they named in honor of St. Clements, the patron saint of sailors. They didn't land on the mainland right away because they weren't sure if the Indians were friendly or not.

After the Indians proved to be friendly, on March 25, 1634, they erected a large wooden cross and celebrated a Catholic mass led by Father Andrew White.

In more recent times, the island was known as Blackistone Island after the Blackistone family who owned it. There was once a lighthouse on the island During WW II, the Navy used the island as part of the Dahlgren ordinance testing range.

Looking back to Colton's Point from the water taxi

Today there is a museum depicting early Maryland settlement about a half mile away on the mainland.

See Colton's Point

Last visit to Saint Clements Island: Jul 2008
Intro Updated Jul 27, 2008
Add to Trip Planner (?)
Report Abuse

Reviews (7)

Low Water and Obstructions - Saint Clements Island

Low Water and Obstructions Warnings and Dangers (1)

The sign says "Danger Obstruction". Photo 5 has a satellite view of one of the obstructed areas of the island... more travel advice

Beaching Boating Island - Saint Clements Island

Beaching Boating Island Sports & Outdoors (1)

Under construction You have to come on your own boat more travel advice

Cross from the top of the lighthouse - Saint Clements Island

The Big White Cross Things to Do (2)

In 1934, to celebrate Maryland’s 300th birthday, Governor Albert Ritchie, dedicated a 40- foot commemorative cross... more travel advice

Model of Blackistone Light in the museum - Saint Clements Island

St. Clement's Island Museum in Colton's... Things to Do (2)

This is a museum about Maryland History on the mainland in Colton's Point. We took our Virginia friends to this museum... more travel advice

Transportation (1)
Water Taxi

Favorites (2)
See All Visit the lighthouse

Travelogues (1)

Written Aug 29, 2008

8 photos

Lighthouse pictures

1 - 1 of 1

Comments (1)

Reply
- Report abuse
littlesam1 Aug 18, 2008 at 10:45 PM

I was just down here this past Sunday and took a lot of photos. Hopefully I will find some time to post them. Enjoyed looking at yours.