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Lost Colony of Roanoke
Over 100 colonists vanished. The only clue: 'CROATOAN' carved on a post. No bodies. No graves. America's oldest mystery—what happened to the Lost Colony?
1587 - 1590
Roanoke Island, North Carolina, USA
0 The Lost Colony refers to the mysterious disappearance of English settlers from Roanoke Island.
The Colony
According to documented history:
In 1587:
- 117 colonists arrived
- First English child born in America
- Governor John White returned to England
- War delayed his return three years
The Discovery
When White returned in 1590:
- The colony was abandoned
- “CROATOAN” carved on a post
- No signs of violence