MonthYearEventSourcePage
Date Year Event Source Page

40,000 Years Before Present (YBP) Flowing in an east-south easterly direction, the Laurentide Ice Sheet reaches and flows across the present-day location of Heron Island. https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mgs/explore/surficial/facts/surficial.htm

25,000 YBP Peak of the Laurentide Glaciation. Heron Island is covered by several thousand feet of ice. The ice scrapes across the island and 'plucks' chunks of rock off the east side of the island creating a much steeper slope than the west shore. https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mgs/explore/surficial/facts/surficial.htm

13,800 YBP Retreating ice sheet reaches the present-day coastline. Because Earth's crust was depressed from the immense weight of the glacier, present-day Heron Island is submerged under several hundred feet of salt water and is nothing more than a nondescript underwater ledge. https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mgs/explore/surficial/facts/surficial.htm

11,000 YBP As the glacier retreats, sea levels drop substantially, as low as 180 feet below what we now recognize as the coast of Maine. Present-day Heron Island exists as the summit of a moderate-sized hill about a mile inland from the coastline. https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mgs/explore/surficial/facts/surficial.htm

11-5,000 YBP Sea levels slowly rise to present-day levels, flooding the area around Heron and making it an island for the first time! Tundra vegetation slowly replaced by changing forest communities as the climate warmed. https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mgs/explore/surficial/facts/surficial.htm

5,000 YBP First evidence of Native American activity in the Damariscotta River. Beginning of oyster shell middens at Damariscotta Lake.


1770 A Boothbay man receives money from another Boothbay man for the presumed purchase of 'Hearne Island,' although there is no record of the first man having acquired the island. Pete Signell's Early Heron History

1772 The name 'Heron Island' labels the island in a pre-revolutionary British map of 1772 that accurately shows the island and all of the navigational hazards around it. Pete Signell's Early Heron History

1872 A Bristol real-estate agent, with no recorded title to the island, receives money from another man for its purchase. At this point the state of Maine steps in and declares itself to be the true owner. Pete Signell's Early Heron History

1884 State of Maine puts the island up for sale, and on April 26, 1884, the state's Land Agent sells it to Boston entrepreneur James Dockray, who had apparently summered in Christmas Cove. Just prior to James Dockray's purchase, the island had no sheep and was apparently uninhabited but was occasionally visited by Christmas Cove people. The North end of the island was only bushes and stumps but the main part was heavily forested. There was a spring in the little ravine where there is now the well belonging to the Stevenson Red House. There were barely discernible remains of some kind of shelter near the site of the present Bennett Cottage. Pete Signell's Early Heron History
August 20 1885 A party of Investors leaves Boston to visit Heron Island. Mr. L. Perrin is in charge of the party. Boston Globe

1885 Dockray sells a half share to Richard Nicols of Boston and the other half share to Lewis Perrin of Brookline, apparently another Christmas Cove summerer. Pete Signell's Early Heron History

1886 Nicols sells his half to Perrin who, on the same date, transfers the whole island, including 'the building now on said island' (now part of the Bennett Cottage?) back to Dockray for a loan of money. Perrin and Dockray stayed in the north shore building together at this time. Pete Signell's Early Heron History

1886 May 15: Perrin sells the island to Bowdoin Parker, who had been elected Treasurer and Secretary of the new Company. Pete Signell's Early Heron History

1886 May 18: Repayment of Dockray's loan to Perrin certified in Wiscasset (legalizing Perrin's sale to Parker) and the same day Parker sells the island to the two Company Trustees. Pete Signell's Early Heron History
May 14 1886 May 14: Ten people from the Boston area and two from Greenfield (with one representing nine others) meet in Bowdoin Parker's Boston office to form a stock company called The New England Land Company to purchase and develop Inner Heron Island. Two Trustees would hold title to the property and sell lots by a bid process following decisions of a Board of Directors. The Trustees were named as Louis Perrin of Boston and Francis M. Thompson of Greenfield. Board approves money for a survey of the island and production of a map. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 2-19
Aug 14 1886 May -August: Louis Perrin represents the Company on the Island and over the next three months supervising, according to Bowdoin Parker, 'building a road through the centre of the Island, North and South, with a nice path all around the outer edge and several cross paths; the digging of two good wells; the building of a substantial wharf; removing stones from the beach and from other places, grading, etc. The new Club House, with 20 rooms was substantially finished, and furnished with all improvements suited to the purposes intended.' The Club House was built by Jeff L. Coburn & Co with a cost overrun. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 24
Aug 14 1886 The formal opening of the Clubhouse occurs on Saturday evening, August 14, 1886. There were 'a large number of visitors and guests from Christmas Cove, Boothbay, Squirrel and Mouse Islands. The principle festivities ... consisted of music, dancing, games, fire works, bond fires, illuminations, and refreshments. The Club House was tastefully trimmed and decorated by the ladies. The house was filled with members as permanent guests of the house and the fullest success and enjoyment attended the opening.'
22
Aug 16 1886 August 16: At a Special Meeting of the Stockholders in the Club House, on motion of Eben A. Hall it was voted that the name of the new Club House be 'Madockawando Lodge.' At the end of the meeting, 'Great satisfaction was expressed by the several stockholders, at the improvements made upon the Island and gratification at the elegant, convenient and commodious Club House.' New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 26
Aug 16 1886 Board sets Clubhouse rates for the current 1886 season. Board was $1/day for members and $1.50 for 'transients'; meals were $0.50/meal. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 26
Aug 16 1886 Board accepts offer from 'The Steward', a Mr. A.H. Brewer, to remain at the Lodge throughout the winter to care for the Company's property for a fee of $30/month commencing Nov. 1, 1886 through to the opening of the Lodge to boarders in the spring of 1887. Brewer becomes the first unofficial caretaker of Heron Island, as well as perhaps the only person to overwinter on the island. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 29
Aug-Sept 1886 August-September: The Thompsons move over to the Madockawando Lodge from Christmas Cove and Thompson was appointed to supervise operations, including the Lodge, as well as to supervise surveyor C.A. Corliss who had been hired to map the island and lay out a plan of streets and lots during the summer and fall. Louis Perrin contracted for 'stoning up and curbing the new well near the wharf.' New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 35
Oct 19 1886 October 19: Surveyor Corliss hired to make a plan of the lots on the island and make an appraisal of said lots upon the basis of $100 per lot for an ordinary lot. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 51
Oct 19 1886 October 19: Board votes that lots may be laid out and sold on the low land near the wharf provided they do not obstruct the view from the clubhouse New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 52
Jan 22 1887 Jan. 22: The Company officially adopts what might be called 'Corliss Plan #1' with 252 lots. The only lot shown North of 'A' St. (the present East-West path in front of the Gunn Cottage) was #252, the Alpha lot (the rest was marked 'Reservation,' 'Snow Reservation' and 'Store Lot'). New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 58
Jan 22 1887 Jan. 22: The Directors decide that deeds for properties intersecting the Marginal Way (east and west shore paths) will be restricted so that 'the general public shall have free access to and from the street and shore at all points, and at all times.' New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 57
May 11 1887 May 11: Board approves construction of the 'Annex' on lot 254. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 61,66
Spring 1887 Alpha Cottage constructed by Jeff Coburn & Co. for the Thompsons. Thompsons immediately took up residence.

Spring 1887 Igloo Cottage constructed by Jeff Coburn & Co. for the Snows. Snows immediately took up residence.

Spring 1887 Gunn contracts with Jeff Coburn & Co. to build a cottage (now called 'The Barnacle') for Brown, who apparently backed out of the deal.

Spring 1887 Gunn Cottage constructed by Jeff Coburn & Co. for the Gunns.

Spring 1887 Although not explicitly mentioned, it is assumed that the Hotel Annex is constructed during this same period of development. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf
Oct 10 1887 Jerome Brown backs out, and Levi Gunn sells the Barnacle to Edgar H. and Ella J. Fox of Norwalk, CT on Oct. 10, 1887. The Foxes named it the 'Nutmeg Cottage'. Edgar Fox was a step-brother to Mary and Charlotte Roberts. Ella Fox brought her sister Hannah B. McClave to the island in 1888. Hannah and her husband S. Wood McClave built Chimneytwist in 1890 or 1891.

Mar 9 1888 March: Board approves sale of the so- called "Annex" to William Mehan for $2,800. Unclear whether this sale went through. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 73
Mar 9 1888 March: Sarah Mehan will assume the running of the 'Club House' for the 1888 season. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 73
May 10 1888 George E. Rogers paid $10 for 'Lawn Tennis, etc.' First mention of tennis on the island. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 19
Dec 4 1888 Main investors Heron Island are: Levi Gunn, Eben Hall, George E Rogers, Francis McGee Thompson, Newell Snow and W.F. Smart. Albion P. Gamage, original owner of the 'Russell House" in Christmas Cove (later to bacome the 'Coveside Inn') is doing most of the caretaker-type tasks such as wharf repairs, and running the store. Will Jordan (Frank's Father)also mentioned. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 23
Nov 22 1889 George E. and his uncle Edwin Rogers pay $150 for 'Rent of Hotel' and an additional $150 for 'Rent of Annex' for the 1890 season. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 24

1889 Newell Snow dies; his estate mentioned in the Company Accounts. Franklin Snow his siter Francilla Blake take over management of the Snow Cottage. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 24

1890 Edwin Rogers assumes management of the Hotel and Annex, marking the start of the Edwin Rogers Hotel Era, 1890-1899.


1891 S. Wood McClave, New Jersey Lumber Baron, appears in the records for the first time, with a payment of $1 taxes on his lot (Chimneytwist) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 26

1892 Charlotte F. Roberts, Wellesley Professor and second cousin to Francis Nims Thompson, appears in the records for the first time, with a payment of $75 for her lot (Current Allard Cottage) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 28

1892 Albion Gamage paid $250 for 'Alteration of hotel' Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 29
Oct 7 1892 After several years of financial troubles, the New England Land Company is dissolved. All the property is transferred at a nominal price to a new entity called 'Heron Island Company'. New_England_Land_Company_Records_1886-1992.pdf 76-80

1892 The new 'Heron Island Company' forms, approves bylaws and elects trustees. The company had thirteen stockholders that included Thompson, Hall, Levi Gunn, Francis N. Thompson (Francis M.'s son), George Rogers, Franklin Snow, and Walter Snow (Franklin's son). Thompson was apparently the driving force behind the new company Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 2

1892 Bowling Alley nets 11.85 for the 1892 season.


1892 The new company adopted what might be called "Corliss Plan #2" with 10 new lots that divided up the North area Reservations, with the Company retaining the roads, the wharf, the Hotel and Annex property, and the present-day Shop property. The former "Store Lot" land, with its Gamage-run store, had been deeded over to the Bennetts. An amended map was created to reflect events of the first 5 years Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 7

1893 Perley Horne, Headmaster at the Dummer School appears in the records for the first time, with a payment of $135 for his lot (Isle End, or Sheshugah as he named that cottage.) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 30

1893 Board approves expenditure of $150 to finish off the 4 rooms in the Annex attic, including furniture and bedding. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 13

1893 Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Rogers given $300 in payment of their services at Hotel Madockawando during the 1893 season. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 16

1893 Fox (Barnacle) puts in a sewer. Horne (Isle End) and Hall (Bellevue) each put in a 'drain pipe'. Cost: $10-$15. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 32

1894 Feb: Board approves hotel improvements: connecting the ell with the main building, finish off a servant's room, remove a chimney and partition in the dining room, build a sufficient cooler and furnish new spring mattresses.


1894 Keith first appears in the record Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 34

1894 Feb 21: Board approves 'changes in the (Hotel) roof, connect the ell with the main building, finish off a servant's room, add a chimney and partition in the dining room, build a sufficient cooler, furnish new spring mattresses, and do other necessary repairs.' Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 15

1894 November: Board authorizes rental of Hotel and Annex at a cost of $400 for the 1895 season. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 18

1894 November: Albion P. Gamage, employed to visit the Island once during each week, when not otherwise inspected, and to build a road on 'B' Street (The road running from the Casino east to the Bungalow on the east shore). In subsequent years, each cottage assessed $1.50 in advance to defray the cost. He remains caretaker until XXXX. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 20

1894 First meeting of the 'Heron Island Casino Association Limited' held at the Gunn Cottage. Constitution adopted and offers elected. The Association agrees to purchase Lot 19, upon which they would later erect the Casino. Casino_Association_Records_1894-1923 13

1895 Casino constructed in time for the summer season. Chairman of the Finance Committee instructed to make the key available to Association members and their families for there use when Casino not otherwise occupied. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 15

1895 July 25: First known death to occur on Heron Island. From the obituary: 'Mrs. Sebaette Stevens Rogers, wife of Edwin Rogers, died at Heron Island, Maine, Thursday evening, July 25. On July 11, Mrs. Rogers had the great misfortune to fall down a stairway in the Madockawando house, the summer home and hotel of Mr. and Mrs. Rogers, and sustained a severe fracture of the hip. At first the accident was not looked upon as one endangering the life of the sufferer. But she gradually failed, her age (75) precluding the possibility of the recuperative powers necessary to even recover from the shock of the accident, not to speak of the vigor necessary to make the injured hip sound and strong again. Anxious and sorrowing friends at her bedside, all unable in any way to delay the approaching end, watched the patient sufferer gradually weaken day by day till the last of life came Thursday evening just a fortnight after the fatal fall.' Obituary, North Adams (MA) Transcript, July 27, 1895

1895 Mary Roberts has bought the Barnacle from the Foxes. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 37

1895 October: Board voted that the hotel & Annex be rented to recently widowed Edwin Rogers for the 1896 season for the sum of $400. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 23

1895 October: Board authorizes paint the hotel and annex, repair the wharf and & erect new water-closets near said hotel. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 26

1896 Rogers now renting the bowling alley for $25, hotel for $200. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 38

1897 December: Board mortgages Hotel and Annex to Edwin Rogers for $4,500. Board also approves more hotel/annex/wharf repairs. George E. Rogers no longer holds any stock and Nahum S. Cutler takes his place on the board. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 33

1898 Casino Association votes to keep the Casino open in general, rather than distributing keys to members only. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 23

1898 Pond first appears in the record, it seems he has purchased Bellvue from E. A Hall. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 42
? 1899 Hotel reverts to the Heron Island Company after the 1899 season after Edwin Rogers falls behind in payments. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 37

1899 William C. Damon appears in the record for the first time, paying $50 for lot 147 Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 44

1899 Gunn puts in a sewer pipe Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 45

1900 Dressing rooms constructed under the Casino Stage Casino_Association_Records_1894-1923 24
June 9 1900 Wharf repaired, well-house built, W.C. Damon constructing cottage. Bathing houses built by the bowling alley and talk of a new baggage room on the wharf. A.W. Little is the landlord for the season. Greenfield Gazette, June 9, 1900
July 28 1900 New service of steam launch 3 times a day from Damariscotta to Heron Island, connecting to the Boston-Bar Harbor Train. Greenfield Gazette, July28, 1900

1900 Lots 75 and 76 sold to John VanNest of Princeton, NJ for $200. He later builds Sprucetops on that site. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 48

1901 Casino Association tasks Mr. McClave with selecting a suitable site on the island for a croquet court. He determines that a regulation croquet court could be constructed between the Annex and Hotel. Association approve $25 to pay Mr. Albion Gamage (the shopkeeper, hotel manager and caretaker of sorts) for its contruction. Casino_Association_Records_1894-1923 29
Mar 16 1901 Albion Gamage leases the Hotel for the 1901 season. Greenfield Gazette, Mar 16, 1901

1901 Damon well approved and constructed. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 42

1901 Gunn pays $325 for rent of the Hotel/Annex Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 48

1901 Board discusses advisability and practicality of lathing and plastering the annex, of moving it west of the hotel (with present eastside facing south) or of tearing it down and using the material for cottages. Mr. Gunn stated that if the company would remove the annex (it blocked part of his view to the north) and agree to keep it clear of buildings for 10 years, he would contribute $200 to the company treasury. No action was taken and the Annex remained where it was. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 43

1901 Nov: Kaulback appears in the record for the first time (10 shares stock)
50

1902 Albion Gamage rents the Hotel for the 1902 Season. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 50
May 12 1902 New naptha launch is ready, to be piloted by 'Captain Benjamin Andrews' or "Uncle Benny" as he was known to the islanders. He we related to Albion Gamage through marriage. Edgar and Ella fox rent Alpha cottage while waiting for their new cottage (Longs) to be built. Edwin Fellows also rents Alpha cottage; he and his wife later purchase the Point of View cottage from the Warners in 1909 or so. Professor John Van Nest of Princeton has Sprucetops built. Stable has been removed in 'The Grove', possibly indicating the end of the horse era on Heron. Greenfield Gazette, May 10, 1902

1903 April 13: Company mortgages hotel to Charles C Butler of Newton Mass for $5,500. Company also leases bowling alley to Butler for 1903 season. Butler's wife Sarah manages the hotel for the next several summers. Here is a link to a remembrance of Sarah that mentions Heron Island Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 49

1903 Company agrees to erect a new tower and windmill to pump from the 'artesian' well and to be the property of Butler when complete. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 50

1903 Company permits Butler to carry on a laundry business for the occupants of the cottages and hotel. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 52
Jun 20 1903 Butlers extend the Hotel 40 ft. southward to accomodate more guests, and new laundry, toilet and bath rooms added. The Butlers rent the Barnacle for the summer. Greenfield Gazette, June 20, 1903

1903 Store lot leased to Albion P Gamage for the year 1903 for the 'purposes of continuing the store, post office and ice business there as heretofore.' (Apparently this arrangement had begun some time before). Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 54

1903 Butler complains about the furnishings at the hotel and the status of the chimney. Company approves payment of $300 to remedy the complaint. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 55

1904 Board unanimously approves 'changing the time and place of the annual meetings so that they should be held at Heron Island in August.' Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 58
Aug 1904 Hanna McClave resigns as president of the Casino Association. This is the last mention of the McClaves in the records. Casino_Association_Records_1894-1923 37-A

1904 Board authorizes Sarah Butler, now the sole holder of the mortgage, to 'erect and maintain upon a site near the southerly end of the bowling alley... An ice house provided that Butler shall furnish ice at reasonable prices to occupants of summer cottages at reasonable prices. This ice house is visible in several photos of the north shore taken at this time. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 59
Dec 12 1904 Anna Andrews buys the Red House from the Cutlers Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 57
July 15 1905 First mention of Rosebank (Now Bennett Cottage) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 56

1905 Sarah Butler falls behind in her Hotel mortgage. Board prepares for potential foreclosure. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 64

1906 Cottages on island: Thompson (2), Roberts (2), Keith, Edgerton,Warner,Gunn, Andrews (2) , Damon, Horne, Knight,McClave (abandoned),Pond,Snow,Fox,Humphries,Kaulback Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 58

1906 Sept: Francis Harper appears in the record for the first time, with purchase of lots for $250. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 60

1906 Hotel reverts to Heron Island Company after Butler's mortgage default. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 66

1906 $150 allocated to paint hotel annex and store. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 70

1906 Sarah Butler's last year managing the Hotel. She purchases land and builds the cottage now owned by the Armstrongs


1906 Oct: Hotel leased to Arthur Libby Race for the 1907 season with a first payment of $100. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 60
June 3 1907 Arthur Race repaints the hotel and annex ($175) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 60

1907 Sarah Butler's cottage has been built Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 60

1907 Board approves construction of new wharf. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 73

1907 First year the Hotel is under the management of Arthur Race. He continues to run the hotel for 4 years, paying a total of $5,800 to the Company over that time.. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 64

1907 Heron Island Company accepts the conveyance of the real estate known as the Casino Property in trust for the Heron Island Casino Association. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 76

1908 July: Van Nest (Sprucetops) appears in the records for the first time Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 62

1908 Francis Nims Thompson now owns the Pearl (Shepard) but not Rosebank (Bennett) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 62

1908 Board institutes fees of $1/month or $2 per season for parties keeping motor boats or yachts at the wharf. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 77

1909 While Albion Gamage continues as clerk, it seems that W.F. Jordan has become the island's unofficial caretaker. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 83

1909 State mandates that local municipalities destroy the recently arrived and invasive brown-tailed moths. W.F. Jordan contracted to destroy brown tailed moth nests for a fee of $30. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 83

1910 Aug: Eddy, Fellows, Bennett, Bucknam (Hotel Manager), Humphries,Clara Burt appear in the record for the first time. Also Clark Burrell of 'Burrell Park' fame (west shore hangout). Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 64

1910 Board votes to abandon A street (originally planned to go due east from the Gunn cottage, between Barnacle and Morris Cottages) and C street (a street going east from the center path past the Register and Sunrise cottages), selling land to adjoining properties. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 89

1911 Attempts to control brown-tailed moths continue, and cottage owners are urged to help cover costs incurred by W.F. Jordan. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 92

1911 Board approves leasing of store, bowling alley, office, post office ($50/year) and ice house ($15/year) to Frank Jordan. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 92

1911 Board votes to waive wharfage fees for the steamer Enterprise for the 1910 and 1911 seasons. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 92

1911 Summer gale damages wharf, the freight house on wharf is destroyed. Treasurer directed to send bill for repairs to the Town of South Bristol.Several boats lost in the gale, including those of Humphries, Kaulbeck, Bennett, Burt, Manning and Fellows. Wharfage fees waived for those families. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 95

1911 Pump installed at the north shore well Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 100

1911 F.W. Jordan reports losing $60 this season and 'did not find that he could be enticed back next year under the current conditions.' Company refunds him $25. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 101

1911 Store to be leased to W.F. Jordan for $25 and ice house for $10 the following year. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 101

1911 W.R. Bucknam (apparently now the proprietor of the Hotel) charged $10 for 'the water used from the company wells for his horse and the hotel tables this season.' Bucknam had worked at the hotel in one capacity or another since the turn of the century.


1912 May: Leroy Howland, Charles Kidder appear in the record for the first time Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 72

1912 Wharf fund created Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 103

1912 Ownership of the tennis court is conveyed to the Heron Island Company from the Heron Island Casino Association. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 104

1912 Corliss resurveys the northern portion of the island to resolve property line disputes/uncertainties. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 105

1912 Board approves construction of a new road between land of Wm. C. Damon and Marion Allen (Now known as Ed's Lane) Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 105

1913 FIRES PROHIBITED! Board authorizes that 'two signs be posted, one on the wharf and the other at the south shore, against building fires on Heron Island.' Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 109

1913 Board approves placement of rat poison at each cottage by Mr. W.F. Jordan, at expense of cottage owners. Heron Island Company Records, 1892-1913 109

1913 Lucius Nims appears in the record for the first time. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 76

1913 Receipts from 1913 were a paltry $45. Company is clearly in financial straits. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 11

1914 Hotel is not open for business during the 1914 season. Hotel is apparently in a state of some disrepair and 'makes an unfavorable impression upon outsiders.' Board agrees to ensure the hotel opens for the 1915 season. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 14

1914 Mr. Damon attends the town meeting of the Town of Bristol. As a result of his efforts and persuasive powers, the following action was taken by that body: 'Art.11. Voted that 25% of taxes paid by Heron· Island people be given them for building of roads,destroying of moth nests etc,o.nd that it may be expended by competent parties on the Island,under the supervision of Road Commoissioner.' This action returns to Heron Island its taxes about double the amount hitherto received, and it allows considerable latitude in its expenditure. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 14

1914 2013 Development Plan for Heron Island released. This is a very interesting and informative read. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 13-21

1914 Frank Jordan (son of W.F. Jordan) becomes caretaker of Heron Island after his father W.F. Jordan passes away on June 15. He is also appointed to the office of clerk and presented with 20 shares of the company. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 6

1914 Company urged to take active measures to insure the opening of a hotel or boarding house on heron during the season of 1915. Mr. Harper suggests use of McClave Property (Chimneytwist, abandoned for a decade) as a boarding house. Feasibility will be investigated along with possibility or re-opening the hotel. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 3

1914 Frank Jordan tasked with rearranging position of the float to 'secure better landing and protective facilities for the boats.' Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 3

1914 Island recovers money from the Town of South Bristol; money to be used to cut a new roadway to the west shore, clear dead wood around the central roadway. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 3

1914 Frank Jordan to provide trucking and ice supply for the 2015 season. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 4

1914 Company makes considerable effort to promote and advertise the island for the 1915 season. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 5

1914 Rat poison again applied at all cottages. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 6

1915 Hotel reopens, under management of a Mr. Andrew Rolaw. First record of him paying wharfage fees ($4) for the hotel in August 1915. He went on to become the proprietor of the Turks Head Inn in Rockport, MA in the 1920s.


1915 Cash balance of $94.55 is the lowest ever reported. Many mentions of cottage owners (esp. those not owning stock) failing to pay fees and contribute to ensure upkeep of island resources. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 22

1916 Purchase of new float approved. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 24

1916 Heron Island Cottagers' group formed. No records or minutes of this group were kept until the 3rd annual meeting in 1919. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 1

1916 Francis McGee Thompson, founder of the Heron Island colony, dies, leaving his holdings to his only son Francis Nims Thompson.


1916 Levi Gunn, long-time president of the Heron Island Company, dies at home in Greenfield, MA on Sept. 16. He leaves his holdings to his widow, Catherine 'Alice' Gunn https://oldtoolheaven.com/biography/gunn.htm

1917 July: Alice Gunn (Leve's widow) elected president of the Heron Island Compaby, a position she will hold for 20 years. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 37

1917 On April 2 U.S. enters into World War I. Walter Eddy, the secretary, reports 'as a measure of economy the Government has notified the Postmaster that the Post Office on Heron will not be opened this summer. This is obviously a war measure and we anticipate no danger to its restoration when the island resumes its normal existence.' Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 32

1917 Few of the board members plan to visit Heron, due to U.S. entry into World War I. Meetings are held only long enough to adjourn them. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 32

1917 In light of war time and few summer folk, Frank Jordan hired at a fee of $10/week to take up residence on the island and secure protection of the property during the summer. Board beseeches cottage owners to help contribute money to this effort. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 32

1917 Despite the war effort, the Hotel seemingly remains open for business. There is a record of at least one person staying there for several weeks in 1917, based on the proceedings of a bizarre court case adjudicated several years later.


1917 Company saved from going bankrupt only from the fact that the Town of South Bristol rebated 50% of last years taxes collected on the island. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 36

1917 Mr. Knight was elected a committee of one to 'secure cloth signs relative to the stripping of birch bark from trees and protection of shrubbery with power to actl'
36
Sept. 6 1917 Hotel and Annex burn to the ground on the night of September 6. Loss estimated to be $10,000. The Standard, vol. 81. (1917).

1918 Apr:Raymond Dodge appears in the record for the first time Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 96

1918 Charlotte Roberts Dies


1918 Board still in financial straits, chooses to scale back the amount of winter clearing work to be done by Frank Jordan. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 42

1918 Board consulting with Rolaw about his plans to reopen the hotel. This is the last mention of reopening the hotel in the records. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 42

1919 Helen French appears in the records for the first time (use of well $1.50) Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 102

1919 Board passes a motion to guarantee Frank Wl Jordan compensation at the rate of $3/day for the months of July and August, another toward Frank becoming the first 'official caretaker of Heron Island. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 44

1919 Board still hard up for cash, with many not paying their fair share to keep up the island and Frank Jordan's work. The board ends the July meeting with these words: 'We get our dividends in renewed spirits and better health.. Despite the fact that things do not look promising today, it should be our pleasure to carry on.' Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 46

1919 A committee appointed to do whatever is necessary in connection with the bowling alley. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 47

1919 Mr. Jordan asks for a guarantee of day wages (8 hours/day) from June 13-Sept 15. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 48

1919 Mr. Jordan reported that if 12-15 families are on Heron Island by July 15th the Post Office will probably be resumed, and river boats, 2 per day. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 48

1919 15 cottages are not filled in time, and the postal service is suspended, but not revoked. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 1

1919 Humphries and Howland cottages (now Shepard/Register) permitted to run sewer pipes to the east shore. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 49

1919 The committee appointed to keep in touch with Mr. Rolaw was directed to see if he would not have the debris from the hotel fire removed. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923

1920 A tea room project (seemingly a sort of boarding house-restaurant hybrid) was proposed in 2019, but needed permission from Mr. Rolaw, since his deed contains a provision that no cottage owner shall conduct a store or shop of any kind. Mr. Rolaw is out of the country, and hoped to rebuild the hotel upon his return. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 11

1920 An advertising campaign resulted in 30 replies and one actual rental. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 52

1920 Board agrees to sell lots only to those who plan to build in the near future and will require new cottages to have sewer connection to the ocean. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 56

1920 Mr. Kidder to arrange an interview with Mr. Rolaw and present the necessary documents to secure release from deed which prevents tea room project. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 57

1920 Frank Jordan to be paid $0.70/hour for a 12 hour day from July 1-Aug 31. Cottages to be assessed $20/year to pay for this. This is the first appearance of something resembling yearly dues. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 61

1921 Company starts the year with a deficit of $300. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 64

1921 Rolaw refuses to sign a release for the tearoom project, so it is dropped. Mr. Rolaw was however, willing to sell his (hotel) property . Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 12

1921 Cottage owners identify the need for signs regarding overzealous picking of flowers Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 16

1921 Board considers blasting the ledge to the east of the floats as it is a navigational hazard at low tide. This is the ledge that currently underpins the end of the wharf... during the hotel period and up until the mid-30s, the wharf was 20-30 feet to the west of its current location, with the skiff float on the eastern side of the wharf. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 73

1921 Board approves installation of a wire and pulley coming off the wharf and requires row boats to be tied fore and aft between the float and the wire. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 73

1922 Company sells the land surrounding the hotel lot to Mrs. Gunn for construction of a new cottage (Hill House). They also give Mrs. Gunn 'the lumber of the ice house and such part of the bowling alley as was necessary to put the latter in proper condition provided that she defray all cost of clearing this material away and putting the property in suitable condition.' The bowling alley lanes become the floor of Hill House and it is presumed that the framing came from the ice house. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 74

1922 $100 allocated to clearing roads from encroaching vegetation and poison ivy. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 79

1922 Cottage owners urge all cottage to install two fire extinguishers in every cottage, including one inside the front door so almost any fire could be put out before it got well started. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 20

1922 Major renovations to the wharf including replanking, a new 'run' and the cable system for dinghies. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 79

1923 Aug: CLarence Hale appears in the record for the first time Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 112

1923 The town of South Bristol votes that no tax rebate be given to Heron Island for the year. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 83

1923 Fires to be prohibited except below the high tide line. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 83

1923 Board prioritizes elimination of poison ivy on the island. Heron Island Company Minutes 1914-1923 83

1923 Cottage owners identify an increasing number of crows on the island as 'unpleasant' and suggest they should be shot, initiating a period of crow control on the island. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 21

1923 The issue of off-season pilfering is addressed by the cottage owners association. They consider offering a $200 reward for the apprehension and conviction of anyone who enters a cottage during the unoccupied season for the purpose of stealing. Signs to be posted on the island, as well as Christmas Cove, South Bristol, Damariscotta, East Boothbay, etc. THis idea is abandoned later as impractical. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 22

1924 Bingham appears in the record for the first time. Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 114

1924 The town of South Bristol votes to give Heron a 40% rebate for taxes for use on roads. Board appropriates $150 for that purpose. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 2

1924 Land squabble involving Thompson is discussed Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 2

1924 Tops of the wells repaired Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 4

1925 Mrs. (Alice) Gunn given permission to level the croquet ground. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 7

1925 Board thanks a Mr. Elliott Leeman for 'recovering and returning the Heron Island sign that had been stolen the previous year. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 8

1926 Aug: Fielitz appears in the record for the first time Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 118

1926 Wharf heavily damaged and float destroyed in a storm on June 15. A new float ordered at expense of $300 from Mr. Rice. Frank Jordan and Capt. Allee thanked for saving the runway and one pontoon. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 9

1926 Frank Jordan estimates repair of the wharf to be $1000 and store repairs at $300. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 12

1926 Cottage owners officially adopt standard time as the official time of the island Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 27

1926 Committee formed to investigate the feasibility of eradicating mosquitoes from the island. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 27

1926 Heron Island company decides to sell lots for $200/lot to raise money for repair of wharf and store. Several signed up including: Bennet (2 lots), Fellows (2 lots), Gunn (2 lots), Damon (1 lot), Dodge (1 lot), Bingham (1 lot). The Gunn lots lie to the north of the Gunn cottage, including the croquet court and the former Annex site. The rest are 'woodlots' on the southern part of the island. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 14

1927 Van Dyke, Ernie Dodge appear in the record for the first time Company_Accounts_1886-1927.pdf 122

1927 Dr. Bennett reported that the "Corliss plan for lots on Heron Island" is on file in the Lincoln Co. Plan Book, No. 1, page 15, at Wiscasset, and reported progress. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 19

1927 Committee on Eradication of Mosquitoes decides the situation hopeless due to the myriad of small rainwater pools on the upper shoreline. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 28

1927 First record of a lawn mower being purchased Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 32

1928 Louisa Stevenson, Harold and Sarah Elley appear in the record for the first time Heron Island Company Accounts 1928-1958 2

1928 Board approves signage at the wharf to limit duration of mooring. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 34

1928 It is decided that removing the reef near the wharf was impractical and undesirable, as it is used to moor the float and be very expensive. Eventually, this reef becomes the foundation for the end of the wharf when it is relocated to its present location. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 31

1928 Frank Jordan builds a locker above the store. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 38

1929 Wharf badly damaged (again) over the winter and repaired by Frank Jordan. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 39

1929 Dodge (Sprucetops) given permission to run a sewer across East Marginal Way (the east shore path). Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 40

1929 Mrs. (Doris) Bingham identifies the need for general improvements of the tennis court, with loose and crooked fence posts, and wire mesh failing. Mr. Oats (Sarah Humphries first husband) solicits subscriptions and raises $175 toward this end. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 33

1929 Mail service to the island is only once a day (!)... board to make efforts to get the Postal Service to reinstate twice-daily delivery. In 1930, the postmaster denies this request in part because of low numbers, but also 'because we were not a colony of big business magnates, but one of professional people to whom speedy mail service in the summer was relatively unimportant.' Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 37

1930 E.C. Schneider appears in the record for the first time, the new owner of Bellevue Heron Island Company Accounts 1928-1958 6

1930 Much discussion of milk and vegetable deliveries to the island, agree to pay 'Roy and John Howland, Inc.' $.50 per trip to bring them over. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 35

1930 Committee on clearing the beach 'advised a breakwater to restore and protect the present beach on the North End, looking towards a kind of pool.' $50 allocated to a trial effort. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 38

1931 Frank Jordan reports that the effort to preserve the beach at the north shore was a failure due to the fact that as soon as stones were removed, and sand washed out. Heron_Cottagers_Minutes_1919-1937 40

1931 Funds raised for purchase of a new Victrola, presumably for the Casino Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 40

1931 There are 13 'subscribers', each paying $9.72 annually to pay Frank Jordan for his services. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 40

1932 It was voted that consideration be given to preserving the large stone standing on edge near the south end or the center path by cutting if necessary the tree which threatens to upset the stone. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 47

1932 Casino in need of painting and shingling Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 47

1932 Original 1892 Corliss Plan Map, in Possession of Mr. Howland, taken to the college safe at Wesleyan for safe keeping. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 49

1933 January Storm destroys wharf, including the shed that apparently held a toilet (!). New wharf constructed at cost of $1,476.62. 'After considerable preliminary correspondence, the Committee met with the contractor on the bare rocks where the old wharf stood and decided on plans for the new landing. This was on March 31. Work is now underway and should be completed in May. The new structure will be quite different from the old, which was built for a steamboat landing, but should be adequate for present needs.' Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 55

1933 The new wharf is made up of 'cribbing', essentially a framework of heavy logs or beams, filled with rocks, forming the crib upon which the decking lies. This later settles and fails. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 67

1933 Wooden pump/bucket at north shore replaced by metal pump. North and center wells to be tested annually. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 56

1933 Board approves construction of new toilet at north shore to replace that lost with the old wharf. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 56

1933 J Street from the central path to the west shore is discontinued, the land to revert to the abutting property. This is on the south end of the island, sometimes referred to as the 3 little bears path. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 57

1933 Board approves construction of new toilet at the North Shore. 'It was voted as the sentiment of the board that if a toilet is built at the north end of the island, it be not on the wharf. It was further voted that $150 be appropriated for the construction of a toilet using the south part of the west room of the store rather than building a separate room outside. Messrs. Van Dyke, Schneider, and Jordan were appointed a committee in charge of the work and were instructed to provide a flush tank, salt water supply by a hand pump, and to arrange for an entrance from the path running from the pump to the illy house around in back of the store and into the toilet room through a door where the window of the west room is now located. ' Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 60

1934 New toilet construction complete , at a cost of around $300. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 62

1934 Roads committee considers ' the possibility of opening small paths through the Island' Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 64

1934 Board considers and rejects proposal to establish telephone service to the island. 'Mr. Howland read a letter from the Nash Telephone Company offering to establish regular telephone communication, with local end long distance service, for about $500 for the first year, to be met by the Islanders Association-whereas, the total installation would cost about $1,000. It was suggested that Mr. Howland write that the Island was not interested.' Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 63

1934 Mr. Howland reports that the wharf crib has apprently settled. Mr. Jordan thought this might be due to the way in which the stones had been put in the crib-- by dumping rather than placing. Howland to inquire with the builder as to whether the settling has damaed the wharf. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 67

1934 Mr. Dodge reports an increase in poison ivy at the south shore. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 67

1934 Elizabeth Andrews dies (?)... appearance of 'Andrews Estate' in the record. Heron Island Company Accounts 1928-1958 17

1935 N street abandoned Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947

1935 Wharf committee approves improvements for bathers on the north shore: 'It was voted that the Wharf Committee be instructed to proceed with the following provision for bathers: A platform built out on the west side of the wharf with stairs down toward the north to the water and a float with springboard be provided, which should be moored to the north side of the wharf. The estimated cost for the entire item was $40.' Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 69

1935 Expenditure of $175 allocated for removal of poison ivy on all public property on the island. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 70

1936 January storm destroys the cribbing wharf. The remnants of the rocks can still be seen today... the small pile of rocks that protrude from the water between the skiff float and the shore at low tide are the remnants of the rocks that filled the crib (John Howland, personal recollection) Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 71

1936 New wharf constructed at expense of $1,200. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 74

1936 Wells found to be contaminated. Possible culprit identified as the 'cesspool' on the property of Mr. Hale and the 'privy' on the property of Mr. Humphries. New well cover constructed on center well and fence installed to keep pets and public away from well. Committee also recommends replacing the bucket system with remote suction pumps (hand pumps). Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 74

1936 Land set aside land as a 'part of it's park system' in the ravine now known as the 'Fires Prohibited' path. The park extends 30 feet to either side of the center of the ravine. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 78

1936 First mention of a 'Heron Island Improvement Society' to potentially replace the Heron Island Company. A commtitte is formed to look into reorganizing the company into an association. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 75

1937 The board brings to the table a proposal to sell the assets of the Heron Island Company to a Heron Island Improvement Society and liquidate all the assets and dissolve the corporation. F. N. Thompson objects to selling to a corporation that 'so far is apprently not in existence.' He also objects to the corporation selling lots on the west shore that are promised to him, so he votes no. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 82

1938 Extension of the wharf with runway leading to a new float a the north end of the wharf Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 86

1938 Expenditure of $175 for clearing of the ravine path (Fires Prohibited) and further eradication of poison ivy. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 87

1938 Chemical treatment of poison ivy tested in an area near the Dodge Cottage, with promising results. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 88

1939 July 15: The first recorded Annual Meeting of Heron Island Village Improvement Society (HIVIS) is held with six people present — the Directors minus the absent Ed Schneider. Those present reelect themselves to the Board of Directors. Immediately after that meeting, the six hold the first recorded meeting of the Board of Directors and they re elect the officers.
????where did this come from?

1939 Mr. Hale reports that 'a good short cut had been cut thru the ravine from the Central Path to the West Path. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 90

1939 Board approves lease of store, wells and landing to the Heron Island Improvement Association for $60/year for a period of 5 years.. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 101

1939 Board permits a sewer pipe from the Gunn Cottage down blackberry lane to the water. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 100

1939 Board approves cementing the center well on the inside down to the water line. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 101

1940 Fire extinguishers purchased for the store and post office. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 102

1940 Alice Gunn retires from the board after many years as president (1916-1934) and as a director thereafter. Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 105

1942 In the HIVIS Annual Meeting minutes: 'Following a complaint by Mr. Howland about the lack of cunners, F.T. Humphries was appointed a committee of one to improve the situation.' ???

1944 Runway to the float lost in September Hurricane Heron Island Company Minutes 1924-1947 109

1947 HIVIS authorizes: 'Frank Jordan to distribute rat poison around each cottage & along the shore at a cost of $1.00 per cottage.'







1950 February storm destroys the wharf. Heron Island Company Accounts 1928-1958 40
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