A milestone for the Town of St George is celebrated today, as it has been 411 years since the arrival of the island’s first permanent settlers at its shores.

Quinell Francis, the Mayor of St George, said that the community stood proud of “the remarkable journey that has brought us to this moment”.

“The indomitable spirit of our ancestors, their resilience and their unwavering dedication have shaped our flourishing community into what it is today."

In 1609, Admiral Sir George Somers and his crew of 150 men, women and children stumbled across the island when their ship, the Sea Venture, was wrecked off Bermuda’s eastern shoreline after being swept from the rest of its Virginia-bound fleet in a hurricane.

The Olde Towne is named in honour of the Elizabethan privateer, merchant trader, Member of Parliament and military leader who laid the groundwork for Bermuda and established it as England's first Crown Colony.

In 1612, the official settlement of the island commenced with a crew of 60 on board the Plough, accompanied by Bermuda’s first governor, Sir Richard Moore, arriving on the island.

The settlers embarked on the building of the town, which today stands as a flourishing Unesco World Heritage Site.

Ms Francis said that the anniversary was cause to reflect upon the countless generations of St George residents who contributed to its growth and prosperity.

“Their unwavering dedication, hard work and love for the community have preserved the essence of the town as it was in 1612.”

The mayor invited residents and visitors to delve into the island’s history, particularly the story of the founding of St George.

“As awareness grows, the importance of embracing our history and culture becomes increasingly evident, as does the value of fostering a greater appreciation for our humble beginnings and the sacrifices made by our forefathers.

“Through their remarkable endeavours, we now enjoy the abundance and opportunities that exist today."