Isthmus Bay (Tasmania) facts for kids
Isthmus Bay is a body of water in southeastern Tasmania. It is a bay that is part of Bruny Island.
History of Isthmus Bay
Early Discoveries
Isthmus Bay was first found on May 1, 1792. It was discovered by M. de Cretin. He was part of Antoine Bruni d'Entrecasteaux's expedition. This group was exploring the eastern coast of Australia.
A few weeks later, on May 21, M. de St. Aignon had an interesting adventure. He was looking for a way out of a channel. His boat got stuck on the beach in Isthmus Bay. He then walked ashore, holding his gun and compass.
Return Visit and Naming
On February 13, 1793, M. de Well and M. Beaupre, a geographer (someone who studies maps and the Earth), came back to Isthmus Bay. The French explorers found many fish in the bay. They even caught a huge fish that weighed 100 pounds! Another fish they caught weighed an amazing 260 pounds!
The French explorers gave the name "Isthmus Bay" to all the water that is now part of Isthmus Bay and Great Bay. They also named the narrow strip of land, called an isthmus, "St. Aignon." They named it after M. de St. Aignon, who had explored the area earlier.
