When you stand on Fort St. Catherine beach in St. George’s, you aren’t just looking at a reef – you’re looking at the site of a maritime miracle that impacted American history.
In June 1609, a relief fleet of nine ships departed England for the starving colony of Jamestown Virginia. A massive hurricane intercepted them, and the flagship, Sea Venture, was blown south, separated from the fleet, leaking dangerously.
Admiral Sir George Somers took a desperate gamble “wedging” the ship between two reefs off the coast of Bermuda preventing it from foundering. All 150 passengers, crew – and even a dog – made it safely ashore.
The survivors then spent the next ten months building two new vessels – the Deliverance and the Patience – out of native Bermuda cedar and salvaged rigging.
When they finally reached Jamestown in May 1610 bringing lifesaving supplies, they prevented the total abandonment of the Virginia colony.
Insider Secret:
Though the original ship is long gone, the spirit of Sir George endures. Somers Garden on Duke of York Street is reputed to be the resting place of the heart of Sir George Somers, who died in 1610. According to local legend, he asked for his heart to remain here forever, while his body was returned to England to secure his legacy.
Next time you’re in town, be sure to stop by the garden to pay respects to the man whose heroism ensured the survival of the New World.