CHAPTER XX
BAILEY’S ISLAND
Here history tells us that the first settlers arrived about 1743. This island is one of the larger islands of Casco Bay and there are still many of the old homesteads there. A definite link with this early period still standing on Bailey Island is the so-called “Gardiner” house built in 1818. It stands back from the road at the northern end of the island and in the rear is an ancient well. The timber came from the ruins of a log house built by Deacon Timothy Bailey, for whom the island was named.
Another interesting house on the island is one called the “Captain Jot” homestead. As the name implies, this house belonged to a sea captain. It dates from 1763, an interesting location for the treasure seeker. Your detector should be able to locate something of interest in this vicinity.
There are many spots to be checked on this island. A good idea is to ask the natives where these old houses are.
I have found that the inhabitants of a particular locale can tell you the history of various points of interest, as most of the older folk have this information at their finger tips. It usually pleases them, the fact that you are asking questions about their own backyard. They will point out many facts and locations that the history books have overlooked.
This island may be reached from the mainland. From Portland take the highway leading to Brunswick, Maine. There you will find signs directing you to Bailey’s Island. It is a beautiful trip to the island. The road is bordered by tall Maine pines, rolling meadows, streams, old farms and neat modern homes. To me the trip down to the island is one of lasting memory.
During your treasure hunting time on the island, don’t forget to have some tasty Maine lobster for lunch. You can purchase these delicious morsels right on the island all cooked. There are tables and benches at which you may sit while enjoying one of Maine’s famous lobster dinners.
The beaches that face the open sea should be checked carefully with your detector, as many landings have taken place here from 1763 until today. Who knows what might be buried along these shores? This island should be one of the finest on your check list, as it is so easy to reach. The author wishes you the best of luck here.
CHAPTER XXI
ORR’S ISLAND
One of America’s famous authors, Harriet Beecher Stowe, made this island stand out in the annals of Casco Bay by writing her popular story, “The Pearl of Orr’s Island.” This story was published in 1862 when the island itself was practically isolated and unknown. The appearance of this story was a literary event for thousands of Mrs. Stowe’s readers.