an island of France, on the coast of Au- nis and Saintonge, about five miles from the continent. It is 12 miles in length, and five in breadth ; and is very fertile, containing about 12,000 inhabitants, who are excellent fishermen. It is defended by a castle, which is well fortified ; and there is a lighthouse placed there for the direction of ships. It is 14 miles south-east of Rochelle. W. Long. 1. 26. N. Lat. 46. 3.

Sea Laws of OLERON, certain laws relative to maritime affairs, made in the time of Richard I. when he was at the island of Oleron. These laws, being accounted the most excellent sea laws in the world, are recorded in the black book of the admiralty. See Selden's Mare Clausum.