St. Clement’s Island, in St. Mary’s County was Maryland’s First Colonial Landing in 1634. The Island offered early colonists an escape from religious persecution.
In 1634, English colonists landed on St. Clement’s Island in search of religious freedom. Shortly after this first landing, the colony of Maryland was established. Over the past 400 years, St. Clement’s Island in St. Mary’s County has witnessed a rich and extensive history.
During the colonial years, the area prospered and became known as Blackistone Island, reflecting over 200 years of ownership by the Blackistone family. The Blackistone Lighthouse, built in 1851, stood on the island’s south end, guiding Potomac River mariners until its decommissioning in 1932. The vacant lighthouse burned down in 1956, marking the loss of an important monument to Potomac River heritage.
To celebrate Maryland’s 300th birthday in 1934, Governor Albert Ritchie dedicated a 40-foot commemorative cross, recognizing St. Clement’s Island as the site where religious toleration in America was first established.
In 1962, the island reclaimed its original identity as St. Clement’s Island when the federal government leased it to the State of Maryland. Since then, the island has been designated as a state park and is managed by Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources.
Residents of St. Mary’s County sought to restore the Blackistone Lighthouse. Through the efforts of St. Clement’s Hundred, a local community organization dedicated to preserving St. Clement’s Island, a replica of the Blackistone Lighthouse was constructed and completed in June 2008. Located on the southern end of the island, the replica stands on higher ground, overlooking the ruins of the original lighthouse. The two-story structure, built using the original blueprints of the 1851 lighthouse, offers visitors insight into the historical and cultural heritage of the island, the Potomac River, and the people who lived, worked, and visited there in the 19th and 20th centuries. The public can visit the lighthouse on select dates throughout the year.
Today, the island is accessible by private boat or seasonal water taxi from the St. Clement’s Island Museum. Visitors can enjoy a covered picnic pavilion with tables, as well as additional picnic tables and benches along the scenic riverside shoreline on the east side of the island. A marked hiking trail and interpretive panels provide information about the island’s history, from the colonial landing in 1634 to the present.
To learn more about the Island or its museum visit St. Mary’s County.
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