In Selkirk's Footsteps: Historical Archaeology Walk
Follow the route of the real-life castaway Alexander Selkirk through key archaeological and historical sites that shaped the Robinson Crusoe legend.
- 1
Selkirk Memorial Plaque
A plaque in the village commemorates Alexander Selkirk, the Scottish sailor who was marooned here in 1704 and rescued in 1709 — the world's most famous castaway.
- 2
1704 Landing Beach
The beach in Cumberland Bay is believed to be where Selkirk was put ashore from the Cinque Ports after a dispute with his captain, William Dampier.
- 3
Goat Hunting Terrain
Selkirk survived largely by hunting feral goats across this terrain — he became so fast he could outrun them barefoot on the volcanic rock.
- 4
Fresh Water Spring
A spring in the valley above the village provided Selkirk with fresh water throughout his four-year, four-month solitary existence on the island.
- 5
Lookout Rocks
These elevated rocks are where Selkirk would sit and read from his Bible — one of only two books he had — and watch for ships on the horizon.
- 6
Rescue Beach
In February 1709, Woodes Rogers' privateering fleet anchored in the bay; Selkirk lit a fire here to attract their attention and end his solitary ordeal.