Delaplane, Kristin

Mar 31, 1996

Abstract: In 1775, Don Perez Ayala, a Spanish explorer, was the first white man to set foot on Mare Island, which he dubbed Isla de la Plana. His men killed some of the local elk and departed. In 1835, a crude ferry transported men and stock between land on either side of the Carquinez Straits. During one of these trips a squall caused the animals to panic, kicking the ferry apart. Some of the animals swam to shore. Others drowned. One prized white mare belonging to Gen. Mariano Vallejo was found days later on Isla de la Plana. Vallejo immediately named the island Isla de la Yegua, which translates to Island of the Mare.