The crew explored the Patapsco River valley in their barge up to near the fall line. Somewhere in the vicinity of what is today the town of Elkridge, they landed the vessel. Smith named the area of the first falls “Downes Dale” (where Interstate 95 crosses the Patapsco today), and walked inland from there about 2 miles. During this journey, they explored for minerals and placed a brass cross to claim the river for England. Much of the river they rowed along is no longer navigable due to heavy siltation caused by later farming and development.