This large island lies between Orr’s Island and the mainland. You will cross this island on your way to Orr’s Island and Bailey’s Island. It seems to be part of the mainland but actually is not. The name “Sebascodegan” in Indian language means “marshy place and a place for gun-firing.” Thus, the interpretation would mean “a good place for hunting water fowl.”
To reach Sebascodegan proceed the same way as though you were going to Orr’s Island. That is, go to Brunswick and follow the signs to Orr’s and Bailey’s. On the way down the neck you will notice several historic old churches with the old burying ground nearby. Many of the old gravestones have some really interesting epitaphs. It is worth a short stop just to read a few of these.
The first settlers to reach Sebascodegan arrived in the year 1639. The first bridge to the mainland was built in 1839, so you see, you also have some real old history connected with this area of the bay.
Near the end of the Revolutionary War several British privateers were preying on the shipping lanes in and around Casco Bay. One of the most notorious of these sea-going bandits was a “Captain Linnacum.” He was of Scotch descent and commanded a schooner called the “Picaroon.” This pirate captured many luckless coasting boats, and it is said, he buried several caches of loot in and around Sebascodegan Island. Nobody seems to know just where the treasures might be hidden. The many caves and inlets should command your attention. I also would not forget to check the inland areas. In the old days this island was criss-crossed with Indian trails, so you see, anything might be unearthed along some of these old trails. Of course, the trails have long since disappeared, but I would use my detector in general directions leading from the coves to the forests. I would give special attention to river banks and brooks. There has been many a rich find located in the vicinity of a river or stream.
The Brunswick Chamber of Commerce used to put out a regional map of the Brunswick area. This map was a very good job, and it showed many of the islands in the Brunswick area. You might stop and check at the Chamber of Commerce. They may still be able to help you.
Cundy’s Harbor is located on the very end of this island and it would be a likely spot for any pirate to anchor to come ashore. I would not forget to go over this area very carefully with my detector. You could ask some of the natives where the schooners used to land in the old days. I am sure they would be pleased to help you with some information on the subject.
CHAPTER XXVII
TREASURE HUNTING EQUIPMENT
Some of the treasure hunters that I know really load themselves down with all sorts of equipment. They remind me of a pack mule. You do not have to have a truck load of this hardware on your back. Here I will mention the essential articles you should take along on your next treasure hunting expedition.
First, I would put down on my list a metal detector, of course. Next, I would take a folding Army trench shovel. These can be purchased in almost all Army surplus stores. Next, I would take along my camera, movie or still, and several rolls of film. A permanent record on film can be enjoyed in years to come. The next article to be brought along should be an iron probing bar. You could make your own or purchase one from the metal detector dealer. They are very inexpensive and very valuable on a treasure hunt. If you decide to make your own, just obtain a five-foot length of ¼-inch rolled steel. This may be purchased from any steel manufacturing plant.