St. Clement’s Island State Park | Baltimore

St. Clement’s Island State Park is a historically rich and scenic 62-acre island located in the Potomac River, about half a mile southeast of Colton’s Point in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. This island is a foundational site in American colonial history as it marks the location where Maryland’s first European settlers landed on March 25, 1634. The arrival of these colonists aboard the ships Ark and Dove symbolized the beginning of the Maryland colony, which was established as a haven for religious freedom, particularly for Catholics, during a time of religious conflict in England.

Historical Significance

St. Clement’s Island is most notable for being the site where the first Catholic Mass was celebrated in the English-speaking colonies, officiated by Jesuit Father Andrew White. This event holds immense historical value as it signifies one of the earliest demonstrations of religious tolerance and freedom in what would eventually become the United States.

Originally, the island was known as Blackistone Island, named after Nehemiah Blackistone, who purchased it in 1669. The Blackistone family owned the island for more than 160 years. The island later came under U.S. Navy control in 1919 before it was designated a Maryland state park in 1962, at which point the name reverted to St. Clement’s Island.

To commemorate Maryland’s 300th anniversary in 1934, a 40-foot tall stone cross was erected on the island. This cross stands as a symbolic monument recognizing both the founding of Maryland and the broader ideals of religious freedom and tolerance in the early American colonies.

Key Features and Attractions

Blackistone Lighthouse Replica: The island features a full-scale replica of the historic Blackistone Island Light, originally built in 1851. The original lighthouse was lost to a fire in 1956, but the replica was painstakingly constructed and completed in 2008 thanks to community efforts led by the St. Clement’s Hundred organization. This lighthouse stands as a picturesque reminder of the island’s maritime heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century lighthouse architecture.

St. Clement’s Island Museum: Located on the mainland at Colton’s Point, the museum is dedicated to the rich history of the island and the early Maryland colony. Exhibits highlight the first colonists’ journey, the religious history tied to the island, and artifacts recovered from the site and surrounding waters. The museum also serves as the departure point for a seasonal water taxi that transports visitors to the island, facilitating easier access for those without private boats.

Recreational Activities

St. Clement’s Island State Park is not only a historic site but also a natural retreat offering various outdoor activities:

Hiking and Walking Trails: The island features gentle walking paths where visitors can explore natural habitats, observe wildlife, and enjoy scenic views of the Potomac River.

Picnicking: Designated picnic areas allow visitors to relax and dine while surrounded by the peaceful river setting.

Fishing and Hunting: The island’s waters and terrain provide opportunities for fishing, and hunting is permitted in accordance with state regulations during appropriate seasons.

Because the island is accessible only by water, visitors typically reach it via private boats or the water taxi operated seasonally from the St. Clement’s Island Museum on the mainland. The seasonal nature of the water taxi service means access can be limited in colder months or off-peak times.

Visitor Information

Location: The island lies at 38370 Point Breeze Road, Colton’s Point, Maryland, and is situated in the Potomac River within St. Mary’s County.

Access: Exclusively reachable by boat or the museum’s seasonal water taxi, requiring planning ahead for transportation.

Hours: The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with water taxi service usually available in the warmer months when tourism is at its peak.

Facilities: The park is equipped with picnic tables and restrooms at the museum on the mainland. On the island, facilities are limited, so visitors should prepare accordingly.

Environmental and Cultural Importance

The island is a protected area managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Its natural environment provides habitat for various bird species, aquatic life, and native plants. Preservation efforts maintain the delicate balance between facilitating public enjoyment and protecting its historical artifacts and natural resources.

The cultural significance of St. Clement’s Island State Park extends beyond its colonial past; it embodies early American values of religious freedom and diversity. It is a site of pilgrimage for historians, religious groups, and those interested in early American history and heritage.

Summary

St. Clement’s Island State Park offers an immersive experience combining deep historical roots with natural beauty. Visitors engage with Maryland’s origins, religious history, and maritime culture while enjoying the tranquil river landscape. The island’s limited accessibility by boat preserves its quiet, undisturbed character, making it a unique destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a reflective escape in one of Maryland’s most historically significant locations.