Martinique... A Touch of French

At anchor in Sainte Pierre... One of our favorite Martinique anchorages, filled with a lot of history.  The French traded a way a bit of snow (Canada!) to gain possession of the small island.  

In 1902, Mount Pelee' erupted killing over 30 thousand of the town's residents.  Most were urged to come to the Theater as it was large and well built and  they would be safe.  Sadly, they were not and the cultural center of Martinique (and the Caribbean) was destroyed.

Fifteen years later, Rodin's assistant created this piece.  It symbolizes the town of St. Pierre, determined to lift itself up from the ashes.  Jon can feel her pain!

Walked to the DePaz rum factory.  This was also destroyed by the volcano but has come back from ashes as well.  Here are fields of sugar cane overlooking the coast, the view from the DePaz family chateau.

On a visit to the town of Fort De France we discovered a second Toi et Moi!  Wanted to buy a t-shirt with the logo but they didn't sell them.  Only Marshall University clothes, which Jon appreciated!

Anchored in front of Fort St. Louis.  We both had our French flags flying. 

Diamond Rock, on the way to Le Marin, the marine center of Martinique.

On the beach near Le Marin, local boats gather every Sunday to practice.  This one's sails reflect the local beer, Lorraine.

Nothing but masts in Le Marin.  There are over 1000 boats in the marinas alone.  Many more on moorings and at anchor.