Ben F. Kennedy

“ French’s Island is located between Great Chebeague and Goose Island and to the south of Bustin’s Island. To reach this island you proceed to Flying Point, Freeport, then by boat to Bustin’s Island, then over to French’s. It is a short trip from the mainland. You will have to hire someone with a motorboat to take you across the bay. This island is privately owned, so permission must be secured before you land and start your treasure hunt. I believe a Portland resident owns this island. ”

“ The Indians, of course, would raid some of the islands; but it was not convenient for them because of the trip across the open water in order to reach their destination; therefore many treasures that were buried on these islands still remain to be discovered by the modern day treasure hunter. A good many of these hidden caches were buried in old iron kettles, tough bags made of animal hides, old iron chests and almost anything that would keep the coins from getting too wet and corroded in the ground.
Now for some treasure hunting locations for the modern hunter armed with his metal detector. ”

“ There is a breakwater from the mainland out to this island and you can cross over at low tide, but the walking is pretty rugged due to the large granite blocks used in construction. These blocks were placed at various angles so it is hard to walk over them. The best way to the island is by boat, either from Breakwater Point or from Crescent Beach, Cape Elizabeth. A small rowboat is all you need, as the inlet that you cross is not very wide.
Richmond’s Island is owned by a gentleman who lives on the mainland. I would most certainly get his permission before landing on the 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 immediate shoreline would be the next location to receive a treatment from your metal detector. As I have mentioned, the Indians had their outings along the beaches and shoreline. The metal detector, of course, is very valuable on a treasure hunt, but don’t forget to use your eyes also. Some of the artifacts you may discover will not be made of metal, but could be stone, wood or even leather. ”

“ We will try to stay with the facts as close as possible. First a little about the geography of Cliff Island. It has great coves, low sand bars, and many lush pine groves; a nicer haven for the artist, scholar, or traveler, has not been found. The Island has not always been known as Cliff; for it originally was called, “Crotch” Island, named after a curious “H” shaped chasm that was hewn out of the solid ledge on the southeastern side of the island. On each side of the “crotch”, are great coves 34 which should be given your undivided attention, as to metal detection. ”

“ Even up to the present day some of these Indian relics are being found and preserved by local residents. The Maine Historical Society has a nice collection for your examination. The Society is located next to the Longfellow House on Congress Street, Portland. You will be most welcome; go in and browse a bit. It is worth the time, as many interesting pieces are on display, and it will give you an idea of what you might uncover yourself.
To reach Great Chebeague Island you take a boat from Custom House Wharf, Portland. Most anyone can tell you how to get to the wharf. ”

“ 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. ”

“ Take the Harpswell road from Brunswick on Route 1 and proceed about half way down the Harpswell Neck, then go to the northern side of the shoreline. There you will see Shelter Island just off shore. The Author has never been over to the island, but has seen it from a distance. It looks very inviting as a spot to do some real down-to-earth treasure hunting.
On my trip to Harpswell, I think that I would inquire as to the ownership of this little island, and try to include it in my tour of treasure hunting locations. Here is a nice area for the metal detector and probe to do their work. ”

“ On House Island, Casco Bay, you will find Fort Scammell. This fort was built in 1808, under the direction of Mr. H.A.S. Dearborn, who under authorization of the War Department, purchased for twelve hundred dollars, all the southwest part of House Island containing twelve acres more or less. On the highest point of this island an octagonal block-house of timber was erected, with a porthole and a gun on each side. The upper story projecting over the lower, two or three feet; contained the battery. On the low upright center timbers of the roof, was a carved wooden eagle with extended wings. ”