Time & Tide Project
- By Daniel F. Davis
There are things in life over which we have some measure of control, but the old adage reminds us that “time and tide wait for no man.” The passing of time, and the ebb and flow of the tides, remind us that generations have come and gone in our small island community and as surely as our elders depart this scene, so too goes a wealth of knowledge, folklore and history that is likely lost forever.
It is with this thought in mind that I awakened in the early morning hours some weeks ago, motivated to begin a series of articles on island life and the proud heritage that generations of islanders have experienced since white men first settled the shores of Moosabec Reach in the 18th century. Thus, it is with great enthusiasm that I initiate this “Time and Tide” project, with the goal of collecting and publishing segments of our local history, as well as information about people, places, and events that represent the unique culture and character of our community. This project lends itself well to a cooperative effort. This is why I am inviting you to join me in compiling a database of information on a wide variety of topics, limited only by the extent and level of interests generated by this request. The following are some topics of possible interest to the general public and which may be included in future editions of the Newsletter. We welcome historical information, photos, personal recollections, or stories relating, but not limited to, the following:
The passenger and car ferry service
Peddlers to the island
Tragedies, fires, shipwrecks, and other incidents
Personal stories that enhance local history
Memories of school days
Social activities and celebrations
Local and visiting entertainers
Information about boat building
The sardine industry, fishing, etc.
History of boats, homes, churches, and buildings
Information on cemeteries and gravesites
Genealogy: family origins, stories and history
Lighthouses and life saving stations
Surrounding islands, settlements, etc.
The building of the bridge and causeway
How life use to be in the “olden days”
Humorous and entertaining stories
Stores, businesses and other enterprises
War memories and veterans’ stories
Changes within the community
Stories of Native Americans who lived here
As you can see, the list is limited only by our imaginations. These topics represent a treasure-trove of information that defines our past, present and future. I am excited about the possibilities this project presents and the part it can play in the preservation of our past. I look forward to working cooperatively with you in this undertaking. If you will help supply the information, I am willing to compose short articles to be featured in upcoming quarterly newsletters of the Beals Historical Society, or perhaps compiled for future publication in a booklet of local history and folklore. Together, we can ensure that the same stories told around our family tables for more than 200 years will continue to be told to succeeding generations. Comments regarding the value and feasibility of such a project would be appreciated. In conclusion, I am presently working on an article about the passenger and car ferry service to the island, which I am sure will be of interest to our many readers. I welcome any information that you would like to share on this topic.
Please feel free to contact me directly at the following address:
Daniel F. Davis, PO Box 22, Beals, ME 04611 (Tel. 207.497.5958)
You may also email your information and comments to Carol Davis at cfdavis44@yahoo.com.