Isla San Marcos & Santa Rosalia
The National Geographic Sea Bird anchored off the south end of Isla San Marcos this morning after sailing through some stiff winds during the night. Exploring the south end of the island we found a small town with the same name – San Marcos. Walking up a hill, we came to a church perched at the top and inside found a man who was completing a year of work. He had been painting the ceiling in preparation for a ceremony that will take place tomorrow when the bishop arrives. His interesting story was translated for us by our naturalist, Carlos. The main activity in San Marcos is mining. Gypsum was discovered here in 1925 and mining of this mineral continues today. It is shipped to California where it is used in producing building materials.
After lunch we docked next to the small town of Santa Rosalia, located off of Highway 1, the main north/south highway on the Baja Peninsula. This stretch of coastline is the most barren on the Gulf coast and the town is sandwiched in a narrow river arroyo between two mesas. Setting out with cameras in hand and our expert photography guides, we first explored the coastline with its myriad of boats. The character of the town of Santa Rosalia in not Spanish but rather a French colonial style and we found many opportunities for photographing interesting structures, including the rusty abandoned mining machinery. Santa Rosalia was established in 1888 as a copper mining town and at one time over 3000 people lived here and worked for the Boleo Mining Company. Locals told us there are plans to re-open copper mining here in a year or so. Today fishing is an important industry. There is also a ferry that goes to Guaymas on the mainland three times a week.
After visiting the church and the museum and chatting with friendly locals, we met up at the Hotel Frances for some tasty guacamole and cold drinks while enjoying the beautiful view and good conversation.
Our evening finale back on the ship was a delicious Mexican fiesta followed by a talk by Carlos Navarro on the history of Santa Rosalia.
