FRENCH'S ISLAND
Considerable Indian interest is attached to French's Island in the lower
bay. An Indian skull was found under three feet of clam shells and it
was figured that the skull was three or four centuries old.
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. A
check of the records will no doubt reveal the owner's name and address.
The finding of an Indian skull proves that if there were Indians on
French's Island there could have been early settlers, and also pirates
on this small island. In days gone by some of the pirates preferred
small islands on which to hide their ill-gotten gains.
When going over this island I would give special attention to the
beaches. The pirates sometimes buried their treasure in a hurry, as a
government boat would be coming up fast in pursuit. It has been
mentioned in the history books that this island was a headquarters for
an Indian Sagamore, or Chief. Some of their trinkets and relics of the
early settlers may still be hidden from view awaiting your detection.
Many of these small islands had clear fresh water springs that attracted
the seafarer. The longboats would put in and fill their casks with fresh
water for the coming voyage, so a check in this area for a spring might
pay off.
Again I say, please be sure to get permission from the property owners
before you proceed with your expedition.