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.

Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details
Duration:
2 minutes, 59 seconds

While the focus of Saint Croix Island International Historic Site is the French presence here in 1604 and 1605, the Passamaquoddy have taken care of this land for more than 15,000 years. By including some of their stories within its programs on French history, the National Park Service is able to greatly expand our knowledge of the site's importance.

Park visitors observe a statue at Saint Croix Island IHS
Plan Your Visit

Know what to expect prior to your visit at Saint Croix Island International Historic Site.

Entrance to Saint Croix Island International Historic Site
Virtual Visits

Activities and resources to explore Saint Croix IHS.

students sit on the floor of the visitor center in front of a park ranger
Education

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

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.

The setting sun over Downeast Maine National Heritage Area from a distance.
Downeast Maine National Heritage Area

Learn about one of the newest National Heritage Area’s. The Downeast Maine National Heritage Area.

A ranger with a camera
Photos & Multimedia

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

Bronze statue of Passamaquoddy person holding out a basket.
Français

A French version of the website is available.

Last updated: August 23, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

84 Saint Croix Drive
Calais, ME 04619

Phone:

207 454-3871

Contact Us