Witch Island in Maine to become wildlife refuge

Witch Island, an 18-acre landmass located off the coast of South Bristol, Maine, has been donated to become a wildlife refuge. The donation was made by a woman who had owned the property for 22 years, according to the Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust.

The island has a long and storied history. Originally known as Stewart's, local legends suggest it served as a hideout for the pirate Dixey Bull in the 1630s. It was later known as Davis Island after being purchased by Captain Samuel H. Davis in 1830. Following a legal dispute over Davis's will after his death in 1884, the island was sold at auction in 1887 to Daniel and Anna Chittenden. It was during this period that the island acquired its current name. Anna Chittenden, born Anna Loomis, was a notable figure whose life included significant personal hardships before settling on the island.