The Lost Colony of Roanoke Island in 1587 consisted of 114 settlers including women and children. Governor John White left the colony to retrieve supplies but was unable to return for three years. When he finally returned, he found the colony abandoned with the word "CROATOAN" carved in a post. It was never determined what happened to the Lost Colony, though theories suggest they integrated with the Croatan Native Americans or were killed in conflicts. Archaeological evidence may provide clues to their ultimate fate.