In the summer of 1682 Increase,
a coastal trading vessel, was wrecked on an unamed island of about 400
square yards in size, off the southern coast of Maine. There were four
survivors,  three
white men and one indian. They spent a month on the island , living on
fish and gulls' eggs. One day they saw smoke rising from Mount Agamenticus
on the main land several miles away. so They built a fire in response and
were rescued. seeing their survival as a boon granted by god, the men named
the small patch of land ''Boon Island''.
Boon Island lies eight to nine miles off of Maine's southern coastline.
The island is easily spotted because on it stands New England's tallest
lighthouse, a stone tower reaching 133 feet into the sky.
 Many
stories have been written about Boon Island and its lighthouse since it
was named some 300 years ago. The most famous incident in the island's
history took place on December 11, 1710, prior to the construction of the
lighthouse. The british ship Nottingham Galley wrecked on the island.
The ship's survivers struggled to stay alive for three weeks, finally resorting
to cannibalism. In recent years cannons have been located in about 25 feet
of water that are believed to have been on board the ''Nottingham Galley''.
By 1799, the first tower was built on the island, but it wasn't lit.
Twelve years lather, in the winter of 1811, the first tower with a light
was erected, it stood just 32 feet above the island. The lighthouse was
rebuilt again in 1831 after suffering much damage due to storms over the
years. This time it was erected with stones an stood 49 feet high. Today's
lighthouse was built in 1854. Once maintained by a lighthouse keeper, the
beacon began running on an automatic system after the storm of 1978.
Gulls are the only residents of Boon Island today. Sometimes they are
joined by cormorants, ducks and seals. From May to September, grey seals
and harbor seals can be found in large numbers sunning themselves on the
island's coast and swimming in the surrounding waters, raising their pups.
Their diet consist mainly of cod, herring and mackerel.
From Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend, you can see these
seals and catch some of the fish they eat on a fishing trip charted by
Captain Bob Liston. Captain Bob is a licensed and registered Maine Tidewater
Guide and has been working on the water since 1965. The boat he charters
is named Lethal Weapon, a 38 foot fiberglass fishing boat built
in 1995, designed for comfort with custom charters in mind. Captain Bob's
services include deep sea fishing trips, coastal fishing trips and cruises
for a maximum of six people. A fishing trip is a fun and affordable family
activity. Captain Bob will be sure to make a fishing trip during your vacation
to Maine memorable!
For more information on Captain Bob, Lethal Weapon and fishing
trips, visit www.lethalweaponfishing.com or call (207) 324-3430. |
