Coltons Point, Maryland facts for kids
Coltons Point is a small, historic community located in St. Mary's County, Maryland, in the United States. It's known as an "unincorporated area," which means it's a community where people live, but it doesn't have its own separate local government like a city or town. Coltons Point is famous for its interesting past and lovely views of the water. In this quiet spot, you can find a small museum and a lighthouse. The ZIP Code for Coltons Point is 20626.
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Discovering Coltons Point's History
Coltons Point holds a special place in Maryland's history. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's recognized for its important historical buildings and sites. This helps protect these places for future generations to learn from and enjoy. The community is part of what locals call the "Seventh District" of St. Mary's County.
The Story of St. Clement's Island
Coltons Point is the main way to reach St. Clement's Island. This small island is very important to Maryland's beginnings. In 1634, the very first European settlers who came to Maryland landed on St. Clement's Island. These settlers were led by Lord Baltimore's brother, Leonard Calvert.
Maryland's First Landing
When the settlers arrived on St. Clement's Island, they celebrated a special event. They held the first Catholic Mass ever in English-speaking North America. This was a significant moment for religious freedom in the new world. Today, St. Clement's Island is mostly uninhabited, meaning no one lives there permanently. It is also slowly shrinking due to erosion from the water.
Visiting the Island Today
You can take a boat from Coltons Point to St. Clement's Island. This boat service runs during certain times of the year, usually in warmer months. The trip is short, but it takes you back in time to where Maryland's story truly began. On the island, you can explore the park and imagine what it was like for those first settlers.
Local Attractions in Coltons Point
Besides being the gateway to St. Clement's Island, Coltons Point itself has a few interesting spots.
The Historical Museum
There is a small historical museum in Coltons Point. This museum helps visitors learn more about the area's rich past. It often displays artifacts and information about the early settlers, local life, and the history of St. Mary's County. It's a great place to understand the stories behind the community.
The Lighthouse
Coltons Point is also home to a lighthouse. Lighthouses were once very important for guiding ships safely along the coast. While many lighthouses today are no longer used for navigation, they often stand as historic landmarks. They remind us of the maritime history of the area and offer scenic views.
