Follow Captain John Smith’s Footsteps

January 15th, 2010 by Krissy
Paddlers on the upper Patuxent River. Photo Credit: IAN Jane Thomas

Paddlers on the upper Patuxent River. Photo Credit: IAN Jane Thomas

Take your students on a journey of discovery, following in the footsteps of legendary explorer Captain John Smith. During Smith’s three years in Virginia, from 1607-1609, he navigated thousand of miles through the Chesapeake’s Rivers.

You and your class can recreate a small part of Smith’s Voyage by paddling or kayaking along the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. The trail is a great way to get your students outside to learn the history and meaning behind Smith’s journey. Learn about Native Americans, including the tale of Pocahontas, and settlers’ encounters with them. Or visit the bay’s bountiful diversity of plants and life and learn how the environment has changed over time.

Begin charting your course NOW!

Additional Resources:
Chesapeake Now and Then – National Geographic

Filed under: Field Studies
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Krissy Hopkins is part of the Chesapeake Bay Program's Fostering Stewardship Team and Education Workgroup.