Witch Island facts for kids
Geography | |
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Location | McFarlands Cove |
Coordinates | 43°52′12″N 69°33′04″W / 43.870°N 69.551°W |
Adjacent bodies of water | Johns Bay |
Area | 18 ha (44 acres) |
Administration | |
United States
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State | Maine |
Demographics | |
Population | 0 |
Witch Island (also known as Davis Island) is an 18-acre (7.3 ha) wildlife sanctuary in South Bristol, Maine. The island contains a beach large enough to host a kayak or canoe trip and thus the island is frequented by summer visitors looking for a day trip. Since the island is a sanctuary, it remains uninhabited. Currently, many of the hikers use the twigs and bark found on the islands' trails to create miniature "witch houses" (the houses, although fewer in number, are similar to those found on Monhegan Island). The island is also named Davis Island, but the name Witch Island has been used as the accepted name both on maps and in conversation.
History
Local legend states the name "Witch Island" was given to the island in honor of the only person ever known to inhabit it. The lady, known as the "Witch of Wall Street," had a very successful career in financial consulting in New York City. She retired to live alone on the island until she was found dead in her cabin by local residents in the late 19th century. The foundation of her residence still exists on the island along with the accompanying water pipes and kitchen sink.