On the 400th anniversary of Captain John Smith’s landing on Monhegan Island, Monhegan Plantation invites the public to join in recognizing this historic event on Aug. 5 and 6.
The history
Located 11 miles off the mid-Maine coast, Monhegan’s natural advantages have been appreciated for thousands of years. The island’s prime location for fishing first drew the Red Paint People to use it as a camp while hunting swordfish 4,000 years ago.
They were followed by Wabanaki tribes, and later by European fishermen; but it was not until after Smith’s visit in 1614 that the island became home to a year-round settlement.
“In the month of April, 1614, with two ships from London, of a few Marchants, I chanced to arrive in New-England, a parte of Ameryca, at the Ile of Monahiggin, in 43 1/2 of Northerly latitude …”
Thus begins Smith’s “A Description of New England.” Smith goes on to describe the fertile soil found on Monhegan and the abundance of fish in the surrounding waters.
The explorers remained on the island until July. Smith and eight of his crew explored the coast while the remaining 37 stayed on the island to build small vessels, fish, and tend gardens.
Smith’s glowing praise encouraged the fishing settlements that soon flourished on the island and were even able to supply the struggling Plymouth Colony with provisions during their first, grueling winter of 1620-1621.
The events
In 2014, Monhegan Plantation celebrates the long, rich history of the island by commemorating Smith’s landing on Monhegan. The recognition of the Quadricentennial will culminate on Aug. 5 and 6.
Events of Aug. 5 will include a symposium on Maine’s Native American and early European history and a formal ball. The U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle will pass the island at noon to acknowledge this important occasion.
On Aug. 6 there will be a parade through town followed by a convocation at the schoolhouse with Senators Angus King and Susan Collins speaking. Additional addresses will be given by Maine State Historian Earle Shettleworth, John Bear Mitchell, associate director of the Wabanaki Center at the University of Maine, and U.S. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree.
On the evening of Aug. 6, the community will gather at Fish Beach to share desserts and live music and enjoy a fireworks display. For more information, visit: monheganwelcome.com.
