The Beginning of a Permanent European Presence in Northern North America

The winter of 1604-1605 on Saint Croix Island was a cruel one for Pierre Dugua's French expedition. Iced in by freezing temperatures and cut off from fresh water and game, 35 of 79 men died. As spring arrived and native people traded game for bread, the health of those remaining improved. Although the expedition moved on by summer, the beginning of French presence in North America had begun.

Bronze statue of Passamaquoddy person holding out a basket.

Francais

A French version of the website is available.

Visitors read about the winter of 1604-05 while looking at a bronze statue.

Events of 1604-1605

Discover the events that took place during the short-lived, but historically important, settlement on Saint Croix Island.

Entrance to Saint Croix Island International Historic Site

Self-Guided Trail

A short, accessible interpretive trail features bronze figures of the French and Passamaquoddy.

students stand in a half circle in front of a costumed ranger

Education

Learn about all the park has to offer for students and educators including traveling trunks, student activities, and teacher workshops.

A ranger with a camera

Photos & Multimedia

Explore this special place through Audio, VIdeo, and Photography.

group of people in a circle discussing

Management

Learn about all the ways the National Park Service works to manage this special place.

Last updated: August 15, 2021

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 247
Calais, ME 04619

Phone:

207 454-3871

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