Date:  Works Done: 

13/05/2019 ➢ Find credible websites about Jacques Cartier’s

○ Birth and death
○ Family (Mother, father, sisters, and brothers)
○ Birth and Living Place
○ Status of his before the exploration
○ Childhood and married life
○ Timeline of his exploration
○ Voyages
○ Why does he explore the new lands
■ http://www.biographi.ca/en/bio/cartier_jacques_1491_1557_1
E.html
■ https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/jacques-cartiers-voyages-
and-basic-life
■ https://www.biography.com/explorer/jacques-cartier
■ https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/jacques-cartier--12
■ https://study.com/academy/lesson/jacques-cartier-lesson-for-k
ids-biography-facts.html
■ https://www.historymuseum.ca/virtual-museum-of-new-france
/the-explorers/jacques-cartier-1534-1542/

14/05/2019 ➢ Start arranging information for the scrapbook.

➢ Find deep history about the birthplace of Jacques Cartier.
○ Location
○ Founded by
○ Named after
○ History
○ Appearance and Constructions.
■ http://www.biographi.ca/en/bio/cartier_jacques_1491_1557_1
E.html
■ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacques_Cartier
■ http://montrealrampage.com/1534-everything-you-wanted-to-k
now-about-cartier-other-quebec-curios/
■ http://www.uppercanadahistory.ca/finna/finna1.html

15/05/2019 ➢ Continue to arrange information for the scrapbook.

➢ Find deep information about Jacques Cartier’s childhood.
○ He is inspired by whom.
○ He married because of what.
○ Why he becomes a navigator
○ His dreams
➢ Start writing the first page of the diary.
○ Biography
○ Where Saint-Malo is
○ Map
■ https://www.wdl.org/en/item/15530/
■ http://www.uppercanadahistory.ca/finna/finna1.html

21/05/2019 ➢ Continue doing research at home even though I was absent (too sick to come -
being sick on your birthday is the worst!) for school
○ Deep information of where he had gone to
○ Encounters with whom during the first voyage
○ Location and weather of each stop Cartier had made
○ Research how does each land look like
 ○ Special events happening (like the cross Cartier had put to claim the
land for France, and captured two people to France with him as trophies
or prove of his exploration for his king)

22/05/2019 ➢ Continue writing the diary, more on the love life of Jacques Cartier with some
imagination included.
○ Diary 4
■ 26 August 1515
■ 27 August 1515
■ 14 November 1515
■ 31 December 1515
■ 18 February 1517
■ 09 January 1518
■ 13 September 1518
■ 1 January 1519
■ 14 February 1519
➢ Plus adding some romance and drama. -W-)b

23/05/2019 ➢ Continue writing the diary, more on the first voyage of Jacques Cartier
○ Describing large amount of details.
○ Diary 5
■ 09 December 1523
■ 17 January 1524
■ 24 January 1524
■ 08 July 1524
○ Diary 6 - Only the beginning
■ 10 March 1534
■ 11 March 1534
■ 20 April 1534

28/05/2019 ➢ Continue writing the diary, more on the encounter and details of the first
voyage including explore, stops, trade, encounters with Natives, and what could
happen during the exploration.
○ Describing a large amount of details.
○ Diary 6 - During the middle of the exploration
■ 23 April 1534
■ 29 April 1534
■ 10 May 1534
■ 7 July 1534
■ 22 July 1534

29/05/2019 ➢ Continue writing the diary, more on the back to France, trade, and bringing
back of the two sons of the chief of Gaspe Bay.
○ Diary 6 - During the return to France
■ 23 July 1534
■ 24 July 1534
■ 25 july 1534
■ 5 September 1534

01/06/2019 ➢ Print, staple, and decorate the journal; waiting for submission.

05/06/2019 ➢ Submit the journal.

Jacques Cartier 
 
Timeline:  
 
Date:  Event:  

13 December 1491  Jaques is born in Saint-Malo, France.  

1 January 1520  Jacques married Mary Catherine des Granches when he was 25 years old.  

10 March 1534  Jacques receives an order from King Francis, who tells him to go and search for certain lands 
which there are said to be big quantities of gold and diamonds. He then sets off the following 
April 20th with courage, hope, and determination. 

20 April 1534  Cartier sets off from St. Malo with his 2 ships and 61 crew members, and embarks on a safe 
journey to the "New World". 

10 May 1534  Cartier arrived Newfoundland.  

7 July 1534  When he arrives at Baie de Chaleur, he meets a friendly group of Huron-Iroquoians, who then 
take him to their leader, Chief Donnacona. Cartier and the chief trade items, this being the 
first recorded trade action between the Europeans and the natives of this new world he was in. 

24 July 1534  In the Gaspe Peninsula, Jacques Cartier had broken many ties with the natives when he put up 
a cross in the name of France, claiming possession of the land. The chief found this improper, 
and not wanting to face the consequences of the discontent, Jacques lied and said it was just a 
landmark. 

15 August 1534  Jacques decides to take Chief Donnacona’s 2 sons, Dom Agaya and Taignoagny for proof of this 
new world. He takes them back to King Francis -who is all the way in France- and promises to 
return them safely to their original home. The chief did not want to part with his sons, but as 
he had little choice, he had to give his sons away wondering if he would ever see them again. 

25 August 1534  On his way back to France, Jacques learned from the 2 young boys that the chief, their father, 
had named their land “Kanata”, and he wrote it down on his maps and charts to mark the land. 

5 September 1534  Jacques then presented the 2 boys to the king of France, who was pleased and gave him a new 
commission to return again to the new world. 
 
Family Relationship:  
 
Person:   Relationship:  Person:   Relationship: 

Mary Catherine des  Wife  Lucas Cartier  Brother 

Granches (1520-1557) 

Geffline Jansart  Mother  Berteline Cartier  Sister 

Jamet Cartier  Father  Jehanne Cartier  Sister 

 
Informations Briefly:   
 
Jacques Cartier is born on December 31, 1491, in Saint-Malo, Brittany, France. 
Jacques Cartier was born just one year before Columbus sailed to the part of the 
world called the Indies. Saint-Malo is a French port in Brittany on the Channel 
coast. The city was founded by the Gauls in the 1st century B.C. In the 4th 
century, Saint-Servan, a town two, miles from Saint-Malo was the site of a major 
Saxon Shore promontory fort that protected the Rance river from seaborne 
raiders. The Saint-Malo traces its origins to a monastic settlement founded by 
Saint Aaron and Saint Brendan early in the sixth century. Its name is derived 
from a man said to have been a follower of Brendan the Navigator, Saint-Malo or 
Maclou, an immigrant from what is now Wales. The city is walled and is earning 
wealth from local extortion and overseas adventures. In 1944, the allies heavily 
bombarded Saint-Malo in mistaking it for a major enemy base. Saint-Malo is the 
setting of Marie de France’s poem “Laustic,” an 11th-century love story. From 
1590 to 1593, Saint-Malo declared 
itself to be an independent republic, 
motto ​-​ “not French, not Breton, but Malouin.”   
 
During his childhood, he heard the stories of Christopher Columbus, 
and he was inspired by the stories. So, throughout his life, Cartier learned 
about navigation and eventually became a skilled mariner. He wanted to 
change the way things were in France, but he couldn’t because he did not 
have the proper political standing. Fortunately, this changed when he 
married the daughter of a powerful political family. Jacques married Mary 
Catherine des Granches when he was 25 years old on January 1, 1520.  
 
First Voyage to North 
America 
 
In 1524, he partakes the first official voyage of exploration sponsored by 
France was undertaken in 1524 by an experienced Italian navigator, 
Giovanni da Verrazano, whom King Francis I commissioned to discover a 
new route to Cathay (China). Financed by Italian bankers established in 
France at Lyon and Rouen, Verrazano departed from Dieppe on the ship la 
Dauphine and explored the eastern coast of America from Cape Fear 
(North Carolina) to Cape Breton Island (Nova Scotia). He carefully 
reconnoitered every opening that gave hope for a passage to Asia, and he 
named the future site of New York New Angouleme.  
 
Cartier’s list of previous explorations prior to 1534 are sketchy and nobody can seem to agree on where he may 
have been during his absences from France: some people believe that in the 1520s, he was on the same ship as Giovanni 
Verrazano; others believe he may have been in Normandy during his absence. Neither theory has yet been proven or 
disproven: his name does not appear on the crew list of either voyage. However, in 1534, fortune would fall onto Cartier: 
he would be called upon by the French king, François the First, to man a voyage to New France. Apparently, the decision 
as to who would lead the voyage seemed to be a toss-up between Cartier or Verrazano, but the latter had been eaten by 
cannibals in Guadeloupe during his last voyage, so the king was left only one option. 
 
Ten years later, Jacques Cartier became a sufficiently experienced navigator. Cartier was introduced to King 
Francis I by Jean Le Veneur, the bishop of Saint-Malo and abbot of Mont Saint-Michel, at the Manoir de Brion. He was 
asked by King Francis I to undertake the official exploration of North America on March 10, 1534.  
 
On March 19, 1534, Cartier was assigned the mission of “undertaking the voyage of this kingdom to the New 
Lands to discover certain islands and countries where there are said to be great quantities of gold and other riches” or 
in short “to search for gold, spices and a Northwest route to Asia. He received the commission two years after the 
Duchy of Brittany was formally united with France in the Edict of Union. He then sets off the following April 20th with 
courage, hope, and determination. Cartier sets off from Saint-Malo, there is no doubt that he was already familiar with 
the sea route that he took in 1534. Cartier sets off with his 2 ships and 61 crew members.  
 
With a crew of sixty-one men (perhaps counting some of Verrazano’s traumatized crew whose names are lost to 
history), Cartier embarked on his voyage in 1534. Cartier and his team set afloat on the Grande Hermine and the Petite 
Hermine, and later joined by the Émérillon and another sixty people, Cartier’s first voyage took about twenty days to 
cross the Atlantic Ocean.  
 
May 10, 1534, he took 20 days to reach the coast of Newfoundland. Newfoundland areas now compromise the 
Canadian Atlantic provinces. He explored the coast of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence later on. During one stop at Îles aux 
Oiseaux (Islands of the Birds, now the Rochers-aux-Oiseaux federal bird sanctuary, northeast of Brion Island in the 
Magdalen Islands), his crew slaughtered around 1000 birds, most of them are great auks. Cartier's first two encounters 
with aboriginal peoples in Canada on the north side of Chaleur Bay, most likely the Mi'kmaq (Micmac Indians), were 
brief; some trading occurred.  
 
His third encounter took place on the shores of Gaspé Bay with a party of St. Lawrence Iroquoians, where on 
July 24, he planted a cross to claim the land for France. The 10-meter cross bearing the words "Long Live the King of 
France" took possession of the territory in the name of the king. The change in mood was a clear indication that the 
Iroquoians understood Cartier's actions. Here he kidnapped the two sons of their captain. Cartier wrote that they later 
told him this region where they were captured (Gaspé) was called by them Honguedo. The natives' captain, at last, 
agreed that they could be taken, under the condition that they return with European goods to trade.  
 
Cartier returned to France in September. With him were Taignoagny and Domagaya, two young Indians who 
Cartier either kidnapped or who were allowed to depart with him on the condition that the French would return with 
European goods. Testimony by Taignoagny and Domagaya about the existence of a fabulously rich “Kingdom of 
Saguenay” convinced King Francis to finance a second voyage in 1535‒36, which Cartier led, bringing with him 
Taignoagny and Domagaya as guides. He also made a third voyage in 1541‒42. Presented here is Cartier’s account of his 
first voyage, published in an edited 19th-century edition. With two ships and 61 men, Cartier explored the St. Lawrence 
Bay and returned to France with two Native Americans as trophies for the king. 
 
 
 
 
 
Diary of Jacques Cartier: 
 
Diary 1 (First Page):  
 
Bonjour, Je m’appelle Jacques Cartier, je suis né à 
Saint-Malo, en France. Si vous avez trouvé ce journal, veuillez 
le retourner. Vous pouvez retourner le journal à 
l'emplacement indiqué ci-dessous. Merci beaucoup.  
Good day, the lucky one, my name is Jacques Cartier, 
the owner of this diary. I was born on December 31, 1491. I 
was first just a married man, my wife and I married when I 
was 25 years old on January 1, 1502. My wife is a beautiful 
woman and her name is Mary Catherine des Granches. 
However, now she is no longer the woman of an ordinary man, but the wife of the first explorer of the Gulf of 
St.Lawrence in 1534, the discoverer of the St.Lawrence River in 1535, and the commander of the settlement of 
Charlesbourg-Royal in 1541-1542 AD. If you found my diary and wanted to return, please sent this diary to Saint-Malo, 
Brittany, France. Saint-Malo is a French port in Brittany on the Channel coast, it is as well as my birth and where my 
family lives. If you are not sure where do I live, I had drawn a map of where my place is below for you. I am rewarding 
you much for returning my diary.  
 
Sincerely,  
 
 
 
 
Diary 2 (Childhood): 
 
31 December 1500 
 
My name is Jacques Cartier and I was born in the ancient town of Saint-Malo. Saint-Malo was a wealthy port in 
Brittany in northwestern France. The rugged port is jutted like a buttress into the sea to form a harbor, the whole day 
the crowd stays, in nights they cheers, in days they work. This is my first time to write a diary and hopes to share what 
happened today. I received this diary as my ninth birthday gift from my mother, Geffline Jansart. Meanwhile, my father 
told me the story of Christopher Columbus as a gift instead. My two sisters, Berteline and Jehanne give me kisses and 
flowers. Thus, my brother, Lucas gave me chocolate.  
Today my dear sister wore pink dresses and my brother are in his formal suit. They blessed me a happy life and I 
wish them too. It’s funny to see my sisters running around a house and my mother scolding at them from acting such a 
child when they are just children. Mother cooked as a lot; Cassoulet, beef bourguignon, flamiche, confit de canard. Her 
dishes always steals our heart. They are delicious! The soft sense of the meat is as soft as cloud, the taste is sweet at a 
perfect, and flavor with the cocoa drink makes the super match. b 
I already talked about mother, Berteline, Jehanne, and Lucas; then let’s talk about father now. Father told me 
that Christopher Columbus the great explorer was born in 1451 -- exactly 40 years from my birth year. Father said 
additionally about how great he was to sail across many lands and slaughter people. However, I found myself wanted to 
be great in navigating like Columbus but does not want to be cruel. I know my soul is not bold or brave enough to 
slaughter someone. I was thinking of becoming an explorer as a future career.  
 
Diary 3 (Becoming an Expert):  
 
21 May 1506 
 
From years of studying the navigation through books and other people’s experiences, today my father rewarded 
me for the hard work with the book written about Christopher Columbus. Hurriedly, I finish the book within just two 
days. Surprisingly, Columbus had died yesterday, the news of his death spread so fast, faster than firing a bullet. I was 
quite sad because I wanted him to explore more and share the experience. Unluckily, my wish will never become true. 
However, the darkness in my heart is melting with the help of my dearest young sisters. Berteline and Jehanne 
had taken all from mother, her nose, sharp but charming eyes, long legs, ad slim bodies. I bet with my father and Lucas 
that the sisters would grow into a very beautiful woman. Their charms will blossom one day. I heard from many people 
that many people are willing to marry Berteline and Jehanne, people are insane my sister are too young to become a 
married woman.  
 
Diary 4 (Love Life):  
 
26 August 1515 
 
I became a mariner, the work was hard but that never bothers me. However, today is one of the best days of my 
life. I met Mary Catherine des Granches, she is gorgeous, her hair was soft like silk and the scent of it is lavender. Her 
face is sharp and fills with beauty, no wonder she was one of the most beautiful ladies in town. Her voice is sweet as a 
bird chirping. My heart is opening for her, I hope she opens her’s for me.  
 
27 August 1515 
 
I met her again, we talk to each other more than yesterday. She shared more about her personal information, 
her birthday, location of living, her daily routine, her family condition, and some of her problems. I feel great to know 
that she trusts me more than I thought. She allowed me to touch her burnt wood-colored hair as in return for the roses I 
gave her today. I knew deep in my heart, I had fallen in love with her.  
 
14 November 1515 
 
If I could cry I would, I saw her today with a man, they held hands and talk together with smiles as if they are 
the only two people in this world. They were together at the edge of the port, she waved goodbye for him and kissed him 
at his forehead. What am I to her? Am I just imagining all that she had fallen for me? 
I had an argument with her. I remember grabbing her wrist, scolding, shouting, whining at her. The crowd was 
watching as arguing. She slapped my face twice, screaming ‘why aren’t you listening to me?!’ and then ran away. I froze, 
became a living sculpture. The rain was pouring, my tears were wiped by the droplets. I walked home disappointed not 
her… but myself.  
 
31 December 1515 
 
 She came back! She talked to me and we now could talk like before. I am so ashamed of my hysterical laugh, 
that man was no more than her brother! Furthermore, they are blood-relatives, no I should say that they are cousins! 
And… I had confessed her, my unlimited love of mine for her. Now, we, Jacques Cartier and Mary Catherine des Granches 
are in a love affair and no one will ever tear us apart. I love you, my future wife… 
 
18 February 1517 
 
We met together almost every day. Not every day because I needed to expert my navigation skills. We are so 
happy to have this day, our memories were everywhere. The port, where we first met became a gallery to other events as 
well. Many people seem to oppose our relationship with a reason that they thought I am planning of using her as a 
bridge to climb the social hierarchy and have more political stands! They are ridiculous! I love her, I could die for her! 
Sighs and sighs and sighs, I did that all day today. I am worried that she will be affected by this issue. I could 
not withstand to see her being view bad. She was a higher class than I, the low mariner of the port of Saint-Malo with no 
any of the political stands or power. What should I do to be able to find equality with her? Or should I change the way 
France is? I just notice something, if I married her, my status will rise and I would be able to change France with hard 
work. 
NO, I can’t do that, if I did, it is no different from what the people are joking about us. I would use her as a step 
if I followed this idea. I should go out, staying inside is making me more doubtful and worried…. 
 
09 January 1518 
 
We became lovely couples. As soon as possible, I planned to ask her to be my forever wife. I had become a 
stocky man with a sharply etched profile. Calm, steady, thoughtful eyes under a high, wide brow held a hint of the power 
that was all mine. Years pass by I had grown much than I thought would. I gain height, strength, and beyond all 
confidence. I had put a lot of effort into becoming an expert mariner. 
 
13 September 1518 
 
There will no longer be an obstacle blocking our love paths. Jacques Cartier, I, became one of the most popular 
mariners of Saint-Malo. My name could be heard almost at every corner of the town. Many people could see my abilities 
and kept their mouth zip unlike before they would say “Cartier such a fool, no knowledge, no good careers no good 
terms”. 
This is the most satisfying event ever in my life, my effort does not go to waste. My name had gained my 
fiancee’s father’s attention, he praised me every time I went to his mansion. My fiance, Mary Catherine des Granches 
was known as the luckiest woman to have a fiance like I.  
 
1 January 1519 
 
One of my knees kneels to the garden’s floor, my hand held the box of a diamond ring. The diamond shines and 
reflects the sunlight. “Will you marry me?” ask I to “Mary Catherine des Granches”. “Yes,” she whispered to my ear, her 
voice shake my body, my heart dances as if it would leave my body. The next second, my lips and hers were together, the 
kiss was the best.  
She told that this is the best New Year she ever had with the greatest and most gorgeous smile. I lean my 
forehead on hers and whispered back, “Me too”. We look into each other's eye, her brown eyes like her hair shine the 
brightest light leading me out of every darkness.  
 Surprisingly, both of our parents came out of nowhere and gave us a surprise attack. Starting off by small 
applause and joyous dance follows. They congratulate us with smiles, kisses, and hugs. So, Mary and I kissed once again 
as a proof that our marriage will occur for sure.  
 
14 February 1519 
 
Bell rings could be heard from the church, where we hold hands and speak our promises. The flower kids spring 
the rose petals over the way for Mary to meet me in front of everyone, every people, every friend, and every relative. Yes, 
today is the wedding day of me and Mary. Mary and I became husband and wife lawfully. Exactly, one month and 15 days 
after my twenty-fifth birthday, our wedding is adjusted.  
Today is a remarkable day, Mary was the most beautiful among the females in the ceremony. Her white dress 
makes her appearance outstanding, not only the dress but also her glamorous face, her calm, and happy eyes steals 
everyone's attention. She speaks to everyone with the most joyous voice listener would ever hear from her, her smiles 
are sweet as honey. If someone asked me “Is your year going great?”, I would boldly and confidently say “more than 
great, more than excellent.” 
 
Diary 5 (Giovanni da Verrazzano): 
 
09 December 1523 
 
I met a person today, he’s a friend I met in a bar and he is drunk. He told me his name was Giovanni da 
Verrazzano, what a surprise it is for me. My eyes widen when I heard his name, yes, he’s not just a regular man like I am. 
His name is widespread everywhere, not only in Saint-Malo but the whole country. Verrazzano has gain fame from 
meeting the king, Francis I during the year 1522-1532.  
The politicians spread the words that he convinced the king to partake a voyage to the West on behalf of France, 
even though he’s an Italian, not France. Verrazzano prepared four ships, loaded with ammunition, cannons, lifeboats, and 
scientific equipment, with provisions to last eight months. The flagship was named Delfina, in honor of the King’s first 
daughter, and it set sail with the Normandy, Santa Maria, and Vittoria.  
I had no clue he came back to France, moreover, he invited me to join his crew for the next voyage that will be 
happening in next year. After finished talking to him and accept his invitation, I quickly ran back to me and Mary's house 
we owned together. I happily hugged her and kissed and tell the whole story.  
But… I shouldn’t accept the invitation, not at all. Mary was sad, though she lied that she’s not. How could I act 
without thinking about her? Just short adventure of a mariner took half months, how about such a big voyage. Mary is 
angry inside but she is not brave to tell me that. I could only say sorry to her, the apologize does not help anything. 
The words could not be wiped off and it would stay. I can’t face Verrazzano and said “I can’t go with you any 
longer”, he would immediately perspect me in a bad way or worst mention me as rude, maybe he will start spreading 
bad rumors about Mary or her parents. Such things could not happen.  
 
17 January 1524 
 
The Delfina is approaching the port, slowly coming with the 
tides. The ships are enormous, the ship could carry hundreds of crew. It 
is larger than my ship. The flags wave, the wind gave it great power to 
move. The ship is mighty and strong. The navigator brought us on the 
ship, introduce themselves kindly and friendly. Francesco Alessandro, 
an Italian like Verrazano has become a close friend to me, he told me a 
lot about his life, family, wife, kids, and his skills. I do see that all of what he said was not a brag or talking big, so I was 
comfortable to talk to him. He brought me to know his best friend as well, Leonardo Mattia. Both of them were friends 
since young, probably since five or six.  
 
24 January 1524 
 
I became friends with all the crew members, even the cooks. They were really intimate towards me, share my 
knowledge about navigation, how to direct the ship, how to cook, how to clean, and etc. On the other hand, Verrazzano, 
though he allows me to call his name but I won’t, shares his explore and guide me to be an expert of the sea.  
He gave me the map of his exploration, routes, trade goods, and some fortune. He is quite talkative, but that’s 
the good point of his. No wonder why the king adores him so much, wise usage of words, honest, and have a great 
connection with people. 
By the way, Mary… I’m sorry for leaving you alone and I apologize for not having a child with you now. You must 
have felt lonely without someone besides you, it is I who should be blamed for the selfishness. My whispers will never 
reach you, but the miss I have for you is flooding the seas and killing me gently. A bientôt.   
 
08 July 1524 
 
The voyage ended, the first sight of the port was a gentlewoman I had missed for months. Manners are still with 
me, I say au revoir to the crew and Verrazzano in the exit. The long stairs are raising my anger, it looks like a long road 
where Mary is at the very end. Her arms open wide accepting my love for her.  
Tightly she wraps her arms around me, tears fulfilled her reflecting eyes. Drops and drops of tears are wiped by 
me, I smiled for her. She grins gladly for my return. Finally, my lips meet hers again, the kiss was deeply communicating 
our hearts together, at last, the bridge of our love is fixed back to its place.  
After going back home, Mary snaps about the dark sack under my eyes. “They look terrible,” she said furiously, I 
replied “Of course my dear, joining such a explore is hard work for everyone, each of us pays almost the whole time for 
our task, and the free times we spend it wisely. Most of it, we slept and take rest, even the time to write my diary is 
impossible to find”.  
At night, in bedtime, I speak to her what happened during the exploration. On her cheeks, I give her my kiss and 
lie down beside her. Slowly I speak, “After 50 days at sea, we sighted land to the west — generally it was known as 
Cape Fear, we took a short visit. Then, Verrazzano steered south, but upon reaching the northern tip, he turned and 
headed north, never losing sight of the coastline. On April 17, 1524, the Delfina entered a Bay. He landed on the southern 
tip of Manhattan - that was the name of the town, where he stayed until a storm a pushed him toward Martha’s 
Vineyard. Verrazzano finally came to rest at what is known Newport of Rhode Island. We interacted with the local 
population there for two weeks, before returning to France in July 1524.” 
“How was it, in your opinion?” she asked me curiously as she looks into my eyes. “Terrible” mumble into her 
ears. I smile when she knit her eyebrow as to say ‘why?’. Leaning my head near hers, “because you are not there with 
me”. She blushed and tries to hide her small giggles by turning her back on me. My arms wrap her waist to sleep, bonne 
nuit my sweetheart. 
 
Diary 6 (First Voyage): 
 
10 March 1534  
 
It's been almost ten years since the voyage with Verrazano ended. Some people in town gossips had entered my 
ear since the voyage ended, some said that it was a lie that I joined Verrazano, but I didn’t keep it in mind for so long. I 
can’t deny that it is the most remarkable exploration I had in my life, but then words changes when I receive a letter 
from the king of France, king Francis the first. The first sight reached the letter was like starting an explosion, my heart 
was shaking, my body trembles in fear of what is written in the letter. No way, mumbling to myself.  
The letter speaks about an order from King Francis to go and search for certain lands which there are said to be 
big quantities of gold and diamonds. Mary glance at me, she walks and touches my shoulder, feeling worried for me. The 
command from the king is not deniable. I have to leave her again and do not know whether when I will arrive home. Mary 
cheered me up, trying to hide her worries as well. She led me to the dining room and feed me my favorites.  
 
11 March 1534 
 
I met the king in personnel for the details of the search commanded under me. He praised that I am a 
forty-three years of age but still a stocky man with a sharply etched profile. Calm, steady thoughtful, and held the hint 
of power is used to describe mine by his highness. His speeches introduce my profiles for most, “master pilot at such a 
young age, skilled mariner once grew, and then capable captain 
once mastered all skills”, he speaks to me with eager tones. 
After the introduction, his highness claims his desire for 
letting me explore in the name of France to the western area. 
Surprisingly, he told that my name and Verrazano was on par for 
whom will take the duty, but Verrazano is declined because of 
some unexplainable reason. Furthermore, I was introduced to 
the king by Jean Le Veneur, the bishop of Saint-Malo and abbot 
of Mont Saint-Michel, at the Manoir de Brion. 
The king stated that he will provide me two ships called 
Grande Hermine and Petite Hermine, both were built ships 
ordered straightly by the king. However, the ship will be present 
for me to view on the day we take off from the port. So, the 
20th of April will be the first time I saw the ship. By the way, 
the king had announced the name of 61 crew members that will 
be joining me on this trip.  
 
20 April 1534 
 
  The last hug between me and Mary happens on the way 
to the ships. She put her face against my shoulders and secure 
her arms around my waist. Her warm tears soaked into my shirt, 
my heart dropped to the bottom. Fairly, I gave her a tight hug 
full of promises of returning home safe and sound. I wave for my 
wife from the Grande Hermine that is exiting the port.  
I moved my attention to both of the Hermine ships. The 
Grande Hermine was a very long sailing ship with two large masts located in the head part of the ship. The foremast was 
as long as one-fourth of the length of this ship. The stern and rooms are enough to fit almost forty crew including the 
captain which I am. The kitchen is found on the floor beneath all the rooms. Meanwhile, the Petite Hermine is not much 
different from the Grande Hermine. Both we alike for the glaze and color of the product used to construct this ship.  
I had made much observation, the color of the ship seems like to be newly painted and I assumed that it is 
because the ship was old since they were built in 1419 to support many great navigators. 
 In contrast, the big difference between the two ships is just the size. The measurement is about one-third 
smaller for everything. Instead of carrying forty people space, the Petite Hermine could carry only thirty people. I was 
always beside the wheel to be sure the direction we are moving for is not wrong. In every direction, the further we move, 
the more water we see. Some of us felt unsafe and insecure but that happens only to the non-experts, unlike me. I am 
used to this much water and route. I became close friends with Guillaume Sequart, the carpenter who joined us, he’s a 
quiet person and is a cheap person for using words, but when he gives idea, he is the best at it.  
I had also know many more people: Macé Jalobert, Laurens Boulain, Estienne Nouel, Pierres Esmery, Michel 
Hervé, Estienne Pommerel, Michel Audiepvre, Brand Sauboscq, Richard Cobaz, and Lucas Saumur. It was fun talking to 
them, they explain all their backgrounds freely and try not to keep any secrets since we are going to be together for a 
long time, the whole trip.  
Less of creature can be found on the surface of the water. More of it was the bluish color of the water and the 
horizontal line at the edge of the world. The ship approaches the correct direction after the whole day of navigation by 
me. It is a tiring job more than any other think it was because one mistake could make the whole sail go wrong. So, we 
captains must be very precise in the calculation and confident for pointing directions.  
 
23 April 1534 
 
Today a ship approaches us and a man enters the Grande 
Hermine without our consent. More of them came on board, the 
crew was terrified thinking they are the pirates. I as well thought 
that my life will end today, the fear shook me. My senses were not 
working at all once one of the men encounters me more and more. 
The tall man, taller than I, walk toward me slowly and steady. Sweat 
droplets swipe down my face and lands on my right feet. The light 
sense gave me a shook.  
Suddenly, the last step of his was one foot away from me. He sways his hand into his pocket. I almost screamed, 
sounds of metal could be heard as the hand of the unknown touches it. Finally, his hand came out, is that a small gun, 
knife, or some type of weapon? I couldn’t stop wondering. In the edge of the balcony, I have no way to escape death.  
Sound of a metal drop causes me to close my eyes. The man kneel down to my foot and kept what he drop. Then, 
he handed me a roll of paper and speak friendly “Bonjour, Monsieur Cartier. My name is Dimitri Schmit. We are order by 
the king to follow along with you. His highness had given you another sixty crew including me and the Émérillon, the ship 
we came by to joined you. I am sorry for frightening you.” his handed stretches and shook my hand. Guillaume beside me 
look confused and was trying to signal me for a command.  
It took me a while to understand the new order and how the new friends encounter us. Totally, the way he joined 
us is unforgettable and must be named us the wierdest way. At last, the sixty crew gone back to their ship, the Émérillon 
which is no smaller than Petite Hermine, but no larger than the Grande Hermine. It was just an average size of both of 
the Hermines together. The design of the ship was different but shows the modern technique of ship crafts. The 
Émérillon has a balcony, rooms, and other parts of the ship was the same as other but its style gave it a unique 
appearance. I wonder why the king had them join us when the crew are already more than enough.  
 
29 April 1534 
 
I acknowledge that we are halfway through the ocean which was known to be the Atlantic Ocean, if I had not 
remembered what Verrazano taught me wrong. I notice something on the way, a creature appeared today on the surface 
of the water, it gave me laughters once some of the crew were frightened and want to knock the creature off. I told 
them to stay calm, relax, and cold. “It was no more than a whale” told by me slowly, trying to hide my giggles. We are 
more closer together since we would have to stay together for what might could be a year or two.  
It rained today, my prayer would not reach god when it goes away from the horrific winds blow. The waves are 
tall, it can devour us in anytime. Commanding the ship at this time is almost impossible. We had to take the sailwings 
down or the wind will broke the masts down. We had to fight for our lives, risk to life and limb for hours before the 
storm faded away. Luckily, no one died, no one lost their life, no one had to risk their life more than they should. But 
surely in return to the safeness, some people might get sick tomorrow. Hope we have some medicines left. 
I wonder what’s the weather at our mansion like, Mary. Are you having enough rest, sleeping well, happy for your 
husband or not? Wish you are here as well to see the explore go on. I want to take my words I said to you about sailing 
is not boring. It really was when I am alone and expert with it, because I will no longer feel the enthusiasm I have when 
exploring for the first time like a ship getting a new toy. Moreover, you are not here beside me...  
 
10 May 1534 
 
My legs were planted on this upper deck for weeks, my joyous could go no more than now. We started to see the 
land far ahead. I am not aware if the land we travelled are discovered, as we notice there is not only one human on this 
gigantic never ending land, possibly someone from far land will have discover it. I am more afraid of what we are going 
to discover soon, and even more when thinking of the second objective of the voyage was to discover certain islands and 
lands said to have great quantity of gold and precious things.  
In the most possible way, I am sure that every land has its own treasure but it could be worth differently in one 
beholder to another. Today the weather is good, we began exploring along the unknown coast. Some might get curious 
for why I do not know this coast. In honest words, no humble, I had explored only some popular places that are on the 
map not ones certainly to be aware for. Risky, as we wish to learn anything at all about this new land, had to sail close 
to the shore, near the fog boundaries of the Newfoundland’s shore, the name given by us for the land.  
Amazed are we to have the honor to sight such land before anyone. The new world reveals to us is a wonder, 
birds, sea birds by thousands were crying along the shore, more swarms over and around one lonely rocky island in 
numbers that all ships of France might be needed to carry them if needed.  
A roar frightened the sea birds, it was not from us. We were sharing sweat droplets with the fog, two men was 
coming towards us. The fog blinds the view so we could see only their shadows. They are wild and savage folks who 
covered themselves with certain tan colors, I describe them once they came close to us with their weapons longer than 
their heights. The Beothuks are what they call themselves as they are the natives of these lands.  
At midday, the weather was dark and gloomy. Through the mist and fog, on the face of the water, the coast was 
no longer in sight. I discussed with my crew that the land should not be called New Land any longer. The composed of 
stones and horrible rugged rocks is nowhere near land that should be named as if God had granted this land, it should be 
called as Îles aux Oiseaux instead. Îles aux Oiseaux, translated as Islands of Birds allowed us to find more food supply. 
We had slaughtered around a thousand of birds to fulfill the crew for a month.  
It was the first time I saw Guillaume smile, but to smile while slaughtering the birds is not a majestic sight. He 
went to wash the blood strain then come to talk about the bird, mostly on how delicious it look like, how fat it was, how 
it blood smells.  
The natives said to us that they are willing to do some trade with us, we understand later that they are not 
prosperous as we are, but some of their goods are worth for the exchange. After that we settled off again, from the stop 
we followed the long coast of the enormous islands wishing to land if there was an emergency.  
 
  
 
7 July 1534 
 
Verrazano was so familiar with the routes that he would need to encounter the Islands of Birds before entering 
the Strait of Belle Isle or Gulf of St. Lawrence, again the name was told to me by Verrazano or his crew. After the 
encounter with the two natives who were willing to trade though do not have such good products, we only followed the 
coast of the New Land until we reached the most northern peak of the island, then we pass the Strait of Belle Isle, and 
go around the Anticosti without making a stop. We shipped to the northern part of the gulf which was a small peninsula, 
before porting at the southern part of the peninsula. 
After crossing the Frenchman Gulf, I came upon an island which is St.Jean. I sailed the ship northwest, and 
followed the coastline, skipping the St. Lawrence River and behold the fairest land that may possibly be seen full of 
goodly meadows and trees. I had reached the shore of New Brunswick, the heat was so intense in the bay in which we 
came to rest. I had arrived at Baie de Chaleur, Chaleur Bay, the named given by me for this bay.  
 
 
12 July 1534 
 
We shipped to the feet of the peninsula, there was nothing interesting. But I believe that is because most of 
their goods and attraction lie in the Chaleur Bay, Land’s End, and the Upper Gaspe according to the suggestions of the 
Native peoples who called themselves the Micmacs. I had planned on making a stop at the Upper Gaspé for more trade, 
as well as finding more Native people. Guillaume was in charge of asking the Natives for direction by the way. He did 
great, no I should say excellent, according to how good his words are used when he speaks.  
 
22 July 1534 
 
Many eyes are watching us. As if by magic lithe, lean, rugged, fearsome-looking men appeared. Their faces are 
painted with red and white ocre. They launched their canoes and approach us, they look terrifying for us. The natives are 
tanned, their weapons are held in their hands almost the whole day, long what looks like a pant look like it could 
strangle someone to death, the hat as well contain long feathers. 
Their speed frightened us, I did not care to trust their signs of wanting to trade. I raised my arm and arranged 
signals for the crew to fire two little cannons. The smoke and thunder scattered the painted people in all directions. 
They had not gone far, however, they would no more follow us.   
 By the way, did I just broke a tie with these Natives? If I did, that will not be a great thing. Guillaume comforted 
me but still I couldn’t take this thought out of my head.  
 
23 July 1534 
 
I was wrong, they did follow us, following morning they reappeared with an obvious desire to trade, they clearly 
show passion in trading with as and was not mad about what happened yesterday. Moreover, they are sorry for their 
uncleared actions. I chose the trade goods wisely, from the appearance they are weapon adorers. Knives, glass beads, 
and other trinkets of small value are traded with some precious products.  
My third encounter with the natives happened on the shores of the Gaspé Bay 
with a party of St. Lawrence Iroquoians are remarkable and unforgettable. In this 
place, I met a friendly group of Huron-Iroquoians, who then take me to their leader, 
Chief Donnacona. We in the name of France and the chief trade items. I was able to 
call it a trade fully unlike ones I did with the Beothuks because of the massive amount 
of precious object received. As said, this is being the first recorded trade action 
between the Europeans and the natives of this new world I am in. 
The crew are honored, fantasized, and joyed by the trade we had met. Their 
eyes shine like diamonds they are playing with, as well as mine when my hands touch 
the smooth skin of gold. The sun reflects the yellowish surface of it giving me a heart 
shake. I succeed in the king’s wishes. I do not need to fear any longer.  
Gaspé Basin allowed us to take more advantages, we fished and take seals to 
fill our cabin with more food, enough for more of a month. I just realized that the 
Native peoples though they live near together, they were not all alike. They spoke different languages, practices 
contrasting lifestyles, and war against each other.  
Mary… wait me bit more my dear, I am almost done from gaining our family fame and wealthier status. Once my 
voyage is finished, our family will be praised, our name will forever be carved in every history of the land. I miss your 
hair scents, your body, and your soft touches. Meet me once the journey ends my dear, I promise you. I am running out of 
paper and am not sure when will my next stop be so I must save it for urgent uses.  
 
24 July 1534 
 
I returned north again and came to another deep bay which I hope it would 
lead me to the Cathay. I had constructed from abundant timber at hand to the point at 
the entrance to the harbor a cross thirty feet high. Under the crossbar, we crafted ‘we 
fixed a shield with three fleurs-de-lys in relief and above it a wooden board engraved 
in large Gothic characters where was written Vive Le Roy De France’ and the natives 
do not know French. Vive Le Roy De France is translated into English as "Long Live the 
King of France".  
Guillaume help me press the cross into the ground deeper and always stands 
beside me. ‘Here on Friday, 24th July 1534 at Penouille Point on land Gaspe, claimed 
for France’ I declare loudly to my fellows and buddies, the cheers followed my voice. A 
great ceremony for France happened on the Gaspe. The onlooking natives, who had 
come from their land to fish, realized that we are claiming this land.  
Furious, anger, mad, negative thoughts and curses I could hear it even though 
the natives did not say it out with their unearthed voices. Donnacona, the local chief dressed in an old black, bear-skin, 
arrived in a canoe with his three sons and his brother. The king pointed to the cross and the land showing hands signs. 
His attempt to clarify us that this country belonged to him and his people is successful but we would not let this land on 
him.   
The goods including food and drinks pacified us, some gifts such as pieces of jewelry are given to us with the 
mean of peace. I resolved to carry some natives back to France and requested the chief’s consent to take his two sons, 
Domagaya and Taignoagny, to come along with me. However, chief Donnacona told that I can bring them along but I 
should return his sons back safely to his arms.  
I received red caps and other clothing, the sons went on the ship willingly, they seem very childish to see the 
wide water surface. They wave, giving farewells to their people.  
 
25 July 1534 
 
Today the ships weighed anchor and the departure was accompanied by boatloads of shouting, waving Natives. I 
am so happy to return to France. I am more when I notice that Mary will be waiting for my return no more than I was. 
The familiar view appears, the blue skin of the ocean, the slow winds blows of misses. The crew were as happy as I am, 
they made a little celebration, drinking alcohols and play games.  
Guillaume joined me to play the games that the other crew invented. It was fun, it was a game that uses card 
and who lose will need to pay, and the winners will collected all the fees himself.  
Mary, I hope you are wanting me at the mansion, but it would be much better to see you at the port, so I can see 
you faster than my heart pounds. I wanted Mary to see Domagaya and Taignoagny.  
 
5 September 1534 
 
I did not wrote anything on the way back because I wanted to put effort on taking care of myself instead of 
sleeping late to write the diary. I can’t let Mary see the sack beneath my eyes again, I don’t want her to be worried about 
me again. Finally, our ship anchored at the port of St.Malo. I allowed my crews to write their names on the list, so I can 
allow the king to see it later on. Guillaume shook my hand and left for home, he gave me a good bye and join his wife 
who was waiting on the port’s land.  
At last, I approach Mary, she as well welcomed me into her arms. Her hands covers my cheeks, her smile is still 
the same. However, I still have to finish my responsibility like taking care of Domagaya and Taignoagny. So, I asked Mary 
to come along with me to the king. She watches me being praised by the king happily.  
But she kept her smile immediately when the king gave me a new commision. She looked furious from the 
inside, but calm externally. Domagaya and Taignoagny is under the king’s care afterwards. The new commission will be 
happening next year possibly because he wanted to give me a long holiday to rest before continuing.  
Mary frowned all the way back home, she whines about the new commission that it was too soon. I lie down on 
her laps and tried to put fire away with cold water. My words are still a weapon to calm her. Successfully she admits the 
commission though still worried.  
The new commission was alike with the previous one, I was asked to lead the crews with the three ships to the 
“Kingdom of Saguenay” described by Domagaya and Taignoagny as the land existing of a fabulous rich materials. 
Domagaya and Taignoagny was the one pointing the direction as concluded from what the king say. The formal letter will 
be given to me and the crews within six or seven month if not mistaken.