Carpenters Island, St facts for kids
Carpenters Island was a small island located in St. Clement's Bay in St. Mary's County, Maryland. This island was officially recognized in 1847. It was named after the Carpenter family: Susan E., Amanda, Rebecca, and Matilda Carpenter, with William Carpenter also involved.
The land that was officially recognized included the surrounding water and was about one and three-quarter acres in size. In 2005, Carpenters Island was listed as one of the "lost islands" of the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay is a large body of water found between the states of Maryland and Virginia in the United States.
What is a "Lost Island"?
When we talk about a "lost island," it usually means an island that has disappeared over time. This can happen for several reasons. One main reason is erosion, where water and wind slowly wear away the land. Another reason is sea level rise, which means the ocean water gradually gets higher and covers low-lying land.
Islands in places like the Chesapeake Bay are often made of soft soil and sand. This makes them more likely to be washed away by storms and everyday waves. When an island becomes "lost," it means it is no longer visible above the water.
Where Was Carpenters Island?
Carpenters Island was located at the very top, or "head," of St. Clement's Bay. St. Clement's Bay is a smaller bay that connects to the much larger Chesapeake Bay.
The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States. An estuary is a place where fresh water from rivers mixes with salty ocean water. This creates a unique environment that is home to many different kinds of plants and animals.
History of the Island
In 1847, the land that would become Carpenters Island was "patented." This means it was officially granted by the government to private owners. The Carpenter family received the rights to this land. At that time, owning an island, even a small one, could be important for fishing, crabbing, or other activities related to the water.
Over many years, natural processes like erosion and rising sea levels likely caused Carpenters Island to shrink and eventually disappear. This is a common story for many small islands in coastal areas around the world.
