On the 400th anniversary of Captain John Smith's landing on Monhegan Island, the Monhegan Plantation invites you to join us in recognizing this historic event on August 5 and 6.

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 Captain John 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 ½ of Northerly latitude…”

Thus begins Captain John 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 with eight of his crew exploring the coast with Smith and the remaining 37 staying 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 1620-21.

In 2014 Monhegan Plantation celebrates the long, rich history of the island by commemorating the landing of Captain John Smith on Monhegan. The recognition of the Quadricentennial will culminate on August 5 and 6. Events of the 5th will include a symposium on Maine’s Native American and early European history and a formal ball. The USCG Barque Eagle will pass the island at noon to acknowledge this important occasion. On the 6th 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 Earle Shettleworth- Maine State Historian, John Bear Mitchell- Associate Director of the Wabanaki Center, University of Maine, and U.S. Congresswoman, Chellie Pingree. On the evening of August 6th the community will gather at Fish Beach to share desserts and live music, and enjoy a fireworks display.

For more information, visit monheganwelcome.com.