The Life and Times of Long Island, Maine
History of a Resilient Island Community
Long Island, Maine, is a testament to the enduring spirit of Maine’s island communities. Despite the challenges of isolation and a changing economy, Long Island has thrived for over two centuries, becoming one of only 15 Maine islands that still support a year-round population.
A Sense of Place
Islands often evoke strong emotions and personal connections. Long Island is no exception. For generations, the island has been a home, a heritage, and a source of pride for its residents. The island’s unique geography and history have shaped its identity and fostered a deep sense of community.
Economic Resilience
The residents of Long Island have a long tradition of self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Fishing, lobstering, and tourism have been the mainstays of the island’s economy. Lunt & Lunt Lobster Co. is the island’s only full-time business, providing employment and a connection to the sea.
Geography of Long Island
Long Island is situated in Blue Hill Bay, just eight miles southwest of Mount Desert Island. The island is surrounded by smaller islands, including Great Gott Island, Placentia Island, and Black Island. Lunt Harbor, a long horseshoe-shaped inlet, provides protection from all weather but a northeast wind. The harbor is a key reason for the island’s survival, offering a safe haven for fishing boats and yachts.
The Decline of Maine Island Communities
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, many Maine island communities died out due to progress and a changing way of life. Placentia and Black Islands, once thriving communities, are now abandoned. Only Great Gott Island remains inhabited, but only during the summer months.
Richs Head
Richs Head, the island’s most distinguishing geographic feature, is a roundish peninsula connected to the main island by a narrow neck of rocks. Settled by William Rich and his family in the 1820s, Richs Head was home to the island’s only other village for almost 80 years. However, it was abandoned by the turn of the century. Today, only slight depressions of hand-dug cellars remain, hinting at the lives that were once lived there.
The Importance of Community
The sense of community on Long Island is palpable. The island’s small size and shared experiences have fostered strong bonds among its residents. The Frenchboro Historical Society, Becky’s Boutique, and the Long Island Congregational Church are just a few of the institutions that bring the community together.
Tourism
In recent years, tourism has become an important part of Long Island’s economy. For two months in July and August, Lunt Harbor is filled with yachts, their passengers enjoying the island’s scenic walking trails and tranquil atmosphere.
A Place of Beauty
Long Island is a place of natural beauty. From the well-trodden woods behind homes to the tumbled beach rocks of Big Beach, the island offers a diverse landscape to explore. The island’s spruce forests, bogs, and granite shores provide habitats for a variety of wildlife.
The Future of Long Island
The future of Long Island is uncertain, as it faces challenges such as climate change and economic fluctuations. However, the island’s resilient spirit and strong sense of community suggest that it will continue to thrive for generations to come.
