Description
The winter of 1604-1605 on Saint Croix Island was a cruel one for Pierre Dugua’s French expedition. Iced in by freezing temperatures and cut off from fresh water and game, 35 of 79 men died. As spring arrived and native people traded game for bread, the health of those remaining improved. Although the expedition moved on by summer, the beginning of French presence in North America had begun.
Need to Know
Located in Maine, Saint Croix Island experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from 50-80F (10-27C). Fall temperatures range from 25-70F (-4-21C). Typically the first is in frost mid-October and first snowfall begins in November and can continue through April with an average accumulation of 67 inches (170 cm). Winter temperatures range from 5-30F (-15 – -1C). Spring temperatures range from 20-60F (-6-16C).
Maps and Navigation
Saint Croix Island International Historic Site is best reached by private vehicle. The site is located 8 miles (13 km) south of Calais, Maine, on US Route 1, and can be reached either by Route 9 from Bangor or US Route 1, the coastal route from Portland and points south. From US Route 1, turn onto St. Croix Drive. The entrance gate is on the right. The visitor center is inside the ranger station.
