Near Point Reyes in Marin County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Nova Albion
Drakes Bay
— 400th Anniversary Marker —
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, April 27, 2014
1. Nova Albion Marker
During his 36 day encampment in California, Drake repaired his ship, established contact with local Indians, explored inland, took on supplies and water, and claimed the region for Queen Elizabeth I.
The Golden Hinde set sail on July 25 and ventured into the unknown Pacific. Reaching Plymouth, England on September 26, 1560, after a voyage of two years and nine months, Drake became the first Englishman and expedition commander to circumnavigate the earth.
Drake’s exploits and claim encouraged England to colonize Roanoke in 1585, and Jamestown in 1607. Captain John Smith, in 1616, named the east coast New England, a reflection of Drake’s Nova Albion.
Erected 1979 by Sir Francis Drake Quadricentennial Committee. (Marker Number 1061.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Exploration. In addition, it is included in the California Historical Landmarks series list. A significant historical date for this entry is June 17, 1579.
Location. 38° 1.653′ N, 122° 57.706′ W. Marker is near Point Reyes, California
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 3 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Cross Honoring First Protestant Service in the Future USA (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Portus Novae Albionus (approx. 1.3 miles away); Whalewatching (approx. 2.4 miles away); Sea Life in These Waters (approx. 2.4 miles away); Lives of Sacrifice and Service are Honored Here (approx. 2.4 miles away); Victims of the Coast (approx. 2.4 miles away); Francis Drake (approx. 2.4 miles away); Preserving Our Maritime Past (approx. 2.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Point Reyes.
More about this marker. This marker is located in Point Reyes National Seashore near the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center.
A half-dozen markers installed over the last 75 years at various locations around Drakes Bay speak about the arrival of Sir Francis Drake, who made England's first colonial claim to what is now the United States. The state has recognized the mouth of Drakes Estero as the explorer's landing place.
In 2021 this was designated California Historical Landmark No. 1061. NPS decided in 2023, in compliance with NPS policy, that the California Historical Landmark
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, April 27, 2014
2. Nova Albion Marker
Point Reyes is in the background.
Regarding Nova Albion. The State of California appointed a commission to recognize the 400th anniversary of Drake's visit. This marker was placed at that time.
Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. — Drake Markers
Also see . . . Drake claims California for England - This Day in History -- The History Channel. During his circumnavigation of the world, English seaman Francis Drake anchors in a harbor just north of present-day San Francisco, California, and claims the territory for Queen Elizabeth I. Calling the land "Nova Albion," Drake remained on the California coast for a month to make repairs to his ship, the Golden Hind, and prepare for his westward crossing of the Pacific Ocean. (Submitted on May 14, 2014, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.)
Public Domain, 2018
3. Stone Cross
In commemoration of the landing of Francis Drake, H.M.S. “Golden Hinde” upon these shores June 17, 1579. This cross is erected by the Sir Francis Drake Association of California, June 1946.
[located 100 feet north of the parking lot]
Credits. This page was last revised on May 13, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 14, 2014, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 772 times since then and 44 times this year. Last updated on May 2, 2023, by Michael P Von der Porten of Santa Rosa, California. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 14, 2014, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. 3. submitted on October 29, 2021, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
