(10) Blands Content

13 June 1608

Elkridge, MD

*The marker is on a high bluff overlooking the Patapsco River in Patapsco Valley State Park.*

*“Where would Smith have left a marker on this bluff?” —Ed*

About

Capt. Smith’s shallop entered Bolus (Patapsco) River, explored several inlets, rowed to the head of tide. A party climbed a nearby hill to leave a cross at the furthest point the explorers reached on their first expedition up the Bay before returning south to explore the Potomac River.

Site

Siting criteria are based on the Smith map and the position of hills, the four streams, and the head of tide 400 years ago prior to extensive sedimentation.

Visit

Public land, Patapsco Valley State Park

Access is by land with lot parking in the Avalon Area. The cross is a half mile along trails from either parking or waterside.

GPS Coordinates

39.2278, -76.7297

N39°13’40” x W76°43’47”

Special thanks to archaeologist Wayne Clark for the determination of this site.