Isla Pavón facts for kids
Looking west over part of the island from the bridge crossing the river
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| Geography | |
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| Adjacent bodies of water | Santa Cruz River |
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Argentina
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| Province | Santa Cruz |
| Department | Corpen Aike |
Isla Pavón (which means Pavon Island) is a small island located in the Santa Cruz River. This river flows through the Santa Cruz province in southern Argentina. The island is part of the Corpen Aike area. Just downstream from the island, on the north bank of the river, is the town of Comandante Luis Piedrabuena.
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Isla Pavón: A Historic Island in Argentina
Isla Pavón has an interesting history, especially because of its role in early explorations and settlements in Patagonia. It was an important stop for explorers and later became a key location for trade and claiming land in the region.
Early Explorers and Scientists
The first European to record seeing Isla Pavón was an English captain named Pringle Stokes. He was in charge of the ship HMS Beagle during its first journey in 1828. Captain Stokes sailed into the Santa Cruz River and noted the island, which was about 54 kilometers (about 33 miles) from where the river meets the ocean.
Later, in 1834, the HMS Beagle returned for its second famous voyage. On this trip, the famous scientist Charles Darwin was part of the exploring team. The new captain, Robert FitzRoy, called the island "Middle Island" during their visit.
Luis Piedrabuena's Trading Post
Years later, in 1859, an important figure named Luis Piedrabuena set up a trading post on Isla Pavón. A trading post was like a small store and settlement where people could exchange goods, often with local indigenous groups or other explorers.
Piedrabuena was a brave sailor and explorer who helped Argentina claim its southern lands. In 1868, the government of Argentina, led by President Bartolomé Mitre, officially gave Piedrabuena ownership of the island. This showed how important his work was to the country.
Standing Up for the Island
Isla Pavón became a symbol of Argentine control in the region. In 1873, a large Chilean warship, a 650-ton corvette called the Abtao, arrived at the small settlement on Pavón Island. A corvette is a type of small warship. The Chilean ship tried to scare the settlers into leaving the island.
However, Luis Piedrabuena was not afraid. He bravely refused to give up the island. His strong stand helped to protect Argentina's claim to the land.
See also
- In Spanish: Isla Pavón para niños
