<P> There are strong indications that those in London comprehended and embraced Smith's message . Their Third Supply mission was by far the largest and best equipped . They even had a new purpose - built flagship constructed, Sea Venture, placed in the most experienced of hands, Christopher Newport . With a fleet of no fewer than eight ships, the Third Supply, led by Sea Venture, left Plymouth in June, 1609 . </P> <P> On the subject of the Virginia Company, it is notable that, throughout its existence, Sir Edwin Sandys, was a leading force . He, of course, also hoped for profits, but also his goals included a permanent colony which would enlarge English territory, relieve the nation's overpopulation, and expand the market for English goods . He is closely identified with a faction of the company led by Henry Wriothesley, 3rd Earl of Southampton . Although profits proved elusive for their investors, the visions for the Colony of Sir Edwin Sandys and the Earl of Southampton were eventually accomplished . </P> <P> In the months before becoming president of the colony for a year in September 1608, Captain John Smith did considerable exploration up the Chesapeake Bay and along the various rivers . He is credited by legend with naming Stingray Point (near present - day Deltaville in Middlesex County for an incident there). </P> <P> Smith was always seeking a supply of food for the colonists, and he successfully traded for food with the Nansemonds, who were located along the Nansemond River in the modern - day City of Suffolk, and several other groups . However, while leading one food - gathering expedition in December 1607 (before his term as colony president), this time up the Chickahominy River west of Jamestown, his men were set upon by Powhatan Indians . As his party was being slaughtered around him, Smith strapped his Indian guide in front of him as a shield and escaped with his life but was captured by Opechancanough, the Powhatan chief's half - brother . Smith gave him a compass which pleased the warrior and made him decide to let Smith live . </P>

Jamestown virginia was the first english colony to have 19 of these