The story of Pocahontas (c. 1595-1617) remains one of the most popular legends in American history. The daughter of a Powhatan chieftain, she was friendly with English settlers in Jamestown, delivering food and working as an emissary between the groups. She is famously known for the legendary tale of saving John Smith’s life after his capture by members of her tribe, protecting him with her body and begging for his life to be spared. She later married tobacco planter John Rolfe.

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail stretches across 3,000 miles and is America’s first national water trail. Discover places that commemorate the cultural traditions and histories of the region’s indigenous peoples and follow the route of Captain John Smith when he sailed the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers 400 years ago. Explore four visitor centers along the way, including the one in Historic Jamestowne which serves as the trail’s headquarters.