4 June 1792 The Most Historic Day in the Voyage of Discovery

4 June 2013 Tuesday

Shatoosh, Pashmina and Hira Barbara Reid have departed the historic anchorage of the HMS Discovery at Blake Island and headed north following in their wake up into Possession Sound. Both the HMS Chatham and the Discovery are piloting, surveying and map mapping. Mr Whidbey is exploring the island that becomes Whidbey Island. Alot is happening, the Chatham runs aground in Port Susan,and gets off without damage, but today is a day of rest for all the men.

4 June 1792- Edmond Meany quotes Captain George Vancouver," all the men were served as good a dinner as we were able to provide for them, with double allowance of grog to drink the King's health, it being the anniversary of HIS Majesty's birth; on which auspicious day, I had long since designated to take formal possession of all the countries we had lately been employed in exploring, in the name of, and for HIS Britannic Majesty, his heirs and successors.

To execute this purpose, accompanied by Mr.Broughton and some of the officers, I went on shore about one o'clock, pursuing the usual formalities which are generally observed on such occasions, and under the discharge of a royal salute from the vessels, took possession accordingly of the coast, from that part of New Albion, in the latitude of 39 degrees 20 minutes north, and longitude 236 degrees 26 minutes east, to the entrance of this inlet of the sea, said to be supposed straits of Juan de Fuca; as likewise all coast islands,etc.within the said straits, as well as on the northern as on the southern shores; together with those situated in the southern quarters; which interior sea I have honored with the name of the Gulf of Georgia, and the continent binding the said gulf, and extending southward to the 45th degree of north latitude, with that of New Georgia; in honor of His present Majesty. This branch of Admiralty Inlet obtained the name of Possession Sound; its western arm, after Vice Admiral Sir Alan Gardner, is distinguished by the name of Port Gardner and its smaller eastern one by that of Port Susan.( his wife)."

King George III was born in 1738 and reigned 60 years.

Blake Island St. Park Commissioners

30 May 2013

Today was a milestone, as the WA State Park Commissioners from Olympia arrived by boat to take a look at site possibilities for the Puget Memorial. Shatoosh and Hira arrived the day before to be ready for discussions and examining options.

l to r.
David Roe, Paul  Ruppert, Nikki Fields, Michael Hankinson, Ryan Karlson, Ed Girard.

We, collectively narrowed 5 possible sites to 2 and focused on them, comparing the pros and cons. The first one is at the Entrance Head Sign and is in a prime location for easy viewing and gets lots of traffic. The trail is flat and stable for persons with disabilities. The HMS Discovery Anchorage has limited viewing due to the marina and breakwater. Restoration Point is directly across the harbor entrance.This existing signage would be removed and placed at another location.

The second one in near the corner of Tillicum Village and is equally visited by the Argosy Tours guests. This would need coordination with another company and leveling out the trail. It requires more work however the Anchorage site is easier to view. The site has native Indian totems and brings us closer to the time period of Puget and evokes feelings of antiquity.

It is exciting to work with these talented, bright people who recognize the importance of Puget's role in the historic exploration of the southern waters. It is a laborious task that we are embarking upon, and our target date of installation and dedication will have to be delayed. We remain focused and determined to see this through.