Yorktown in York County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
John Smith Explores the Chesapeake
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
An Abundance of Life
Smith discovered a treasure trove of natural wonders in the Chesapeake region: thick forests of giant pines, oaks and hickories; vast marshlands; huge turtles, 800-pound sturgeon, and great schools of shad and striped bass. Massive flocks of ducks, geese, and swans darkened the sky; and enormous oyster reefs rose above the water’s surface.
Native Inhabitants
At the time of Smith’s exploration, an estimated 50,000 American Indians dwelled in the Chesapeake region—as their ancestors had for thousands of years. Their sophisticated societies included arts and architecture, systems of government, extensive trade and communication networks, and shared spiritual beliefs. The native peoples hunted, fished, grew crops, and gathered food and raw materials from the land and waterways.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Exploration • Native Americans. In addition, it is included in the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1607.
Location. 37° 14.377′ N, 76° 30.645′ W. Marker is in Yorktown, Virginia, in York County. Marker can be reached from Water Street west of Buckner Street, on the right when traveling west. Located along Yorktown's Riverwalk. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 309 Water Street, Yorktown VA 23690, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Join the Adventure (here, next to this marker); The Watermen's Museum (a few steps from this marker); Aviation Field Yorktown (a few steps from this marker); Yorktown's Windmill (a few steps from this marker); Naval Weapons Station (within shouting distance of this marker); The Yorktown Windmill (within shouting distance of this marker); The Betsy (within shouting distance of this marker); Chesapeake Bay Watermen (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Yorktown.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on April 21, 2013, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 409 times since then and 21 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 21, 2013, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia.