Introduction

As I set out to recount the history of São Miguel Island—my home—I once said to Fame:

“Now, Lady, you must be even more patient in listening to me than before, for in speaking of this island, I shall dwell on many small details that may weary both writer and reader.”

To which she replied:

“It is precisely in such details that I find delight. Speak them freely—some will praise them, others will criticize, but all will engage with them. That is my nature.”

Encouraged by this, I resolved to tell the story truthfully—without favor, fear, or embellishment.

Truth vs. Legend

Like many lands, São Miguel is surrounded by stories—some grounded in truth, others shaped by imagination. Many people invent noble origins to glorify their past.

But here, I will share only what I have learned through careful inquiry, testimony, and historical memory—rejecting what seems false, and preserving what appears credible.

The Mission from Prince Henry

After the discovery of Santa Maria Island, Prince Henry the Navigator ordered the exploration of neighboring lands, including São Miguel.

He entrusted this mission to Frei Gonçalo Velho, already captain of Santa Maria.

Prepared for the journey, Gonçalo Velho departed from Sagres. Navigating carefully, he reached the latitude of Santa Maria, but despite sailing between the islands, he failed to sight São Miguel and returned to Portugal.

When questioned, he explained his route. Prince Henry concluded:

“You passed between the islet and the mainland.”

By this, he meant that Santa Maria was the “islet,” and São Miguel—the larger island—was the “mainland.”

Myths of Demons and Miracles

Some tales claim that on a later voyage, Gonçalo Velho first landed on the islet of Vila Franca, where he held a mass.

According to legend, terrifying voices cried out:

“This island is ours! Ours!”

These were said to be demons resisting the arrival of Christians.

However, such stories resemble ancient myths—like those told by Plutarch—and are best understood as symbolic or fictional rather than historical truth.

The Clue from a Fugitive Slave

A more credible account tells of a fugitive slave from Guinea who escaped into the mountains of Santa Maria.

From there, on clear days, he claimed to see a large landmass to the north.

This report reached Prince Henry and strengthened his belief that another island existed nearby.

The Successful Discovery

Prince Henry again sent Frei Gonçalo Velho, instructing him clearly:

“Set your course north from Santa Maria, and you will find the land.”

Following these directions, Gonçalo Velho and his pilot—named Vicente—set sail.

On May 8, 1444, the island was finally sighted.

This date coincided with the feast of the Archangel Michael. In honor of this, the island was named:

São Miguel (Saint Michael)

First Landing

The explorers landed at what is now known as Povoação Velha.

There, they found:

• Fresh rivers of clear water
• Dense forests of cedar, laurel, and other trees
• Rich, untouched land

Filled with joy, they gave thanks to God.

They likely celebrated a mass—though details of it have been lost.

First Impressions of the Island

The explorers described the island as:

• Wild and densely forested
• Filled with mountains and valleys
• Rich in natural resources
• Promising for future settlement

They explored both land and coastline, gathering samples—plants, soil, and birds—to present to Prince Henry.

The Origin of the Name “Azores”

The name “Azores” is believed to come from birds seen on the islands.

Early explorers thought they were hawks (açores in Portuguese), though they were more likely kites (milhafres).

Regardless, the name endured and spread to all the islands.

Return and Reward

After their exploration, the crew returned to Portugal.

Prince Henry received them with great satisfaction and rewarded their service generously.

Frei Gonçalo Velho was granted:

• The captaincy of São Miguel
• In addition to his existing command of Santa Maria

A fitting reward for his persistence and success.

Final Note

This account stands not as myth, but as a careful reconstruction of events—drawn from memory, testimony, and reason.

While legends may entertain, truth—however simple—is the foundation of history.