A Reminder of Our Past - A Periodic Glimpse of the “Defiance”
Recent storm tides have once again exposed the skeletal remains of a 50’ sloop,
believed to have been built in Massachusetts in 1754. The Cornell University Tree-Ring
Laboratory determined the age by analyzing the three types of wood used in the
construction of the sloop. The “Defiance”, manned by a crew of 4, was carrying flour
and pork from Salem, MA to Casco Bay in Portland Maine when shipwrecked in 1769
off of Short Sands Beach in York. The crew survived, but the ship was abandoned.
Normally covered by 5-6’ of sand, exceptional storm tides occasionally take back the
sand to reveal this archaeological find in our own backyard, reminding us of a past
world changing, historical era.
The French-Indian War (1754-1763), erroneously dubbed the Seven Year War, and
referred to as the “first global war” by Winston Churchill, ended with Britain victorious.
The cost of the war was passed on to the colonies which ignited a series of events
culminating in the American Revolution. The rest is history.
While visiting museums and studying our nation’s history are enriching, educational,
and insightful, sometimes artifacts are in close range and can serve as a reminder to
take note of what transpired before us, leading us to where we are today.
The exposed remains will once again be covered with the deposit of sand by spring
tides, possibly with a little assistance from public works, but while unearthed local
authorities ask that visitors not disturb the artifact.
While in York...
An opportunity presents itself in the off season for a visit to scenic trails in York. Cliff
Walk is a scenic half mile (1 mile out and back), with gorgeous ocean views that
follows the rocky coastline from York Harbor Beach to Eastern Point Road. Parking is best on York St near Hartley Mason Reserve with 2 hour parking spots. Ranked #1 on Tripadvisor for things to do in York.
Stretch Those Legs
Access to the Fisherman's Walk is nearby. 1.6 miles out and back, this trail will bring
you to the Wiggly Bridge, 57 Barrell Ln Ext, York, ME 03909, www.seacoastnh.com/
travel/scenic-walks/wiggly-bridge-and-steedman-woods/, the world’s smallest
suspended bridge built in the 1930’s, found between York River and Barrell Mill Pond,
connecting to Steedman Woods, a nature preserve with additional walking trails.
Enjoy a Treat from a Local Icon
Make sure to visit Hancock Warehouse and Wharf, built in 1740 and the only
remaining Colonial Period building in York. Take advantage of photo ops throughout
your walk, including at the wharf with colorful lobster buoys as a backdrop.
Also must-see if visiting in season, Old York Historical Society, 3 Lindsay Rd., York,
ME, and the several historical buildings on site. Open late May-October. oldyork.org,
207-363-1756
OGUNQUIT BEACH TOP RATED AGAIN!
This soft, wide, white sandy beach (just 1.5 miles from Seaglass Village) has consistently been ranked by Tripadvisor as one of the top 25 beaches in our nation for three years in a row and #1 in New England. The 3.5 mile long beach covers Main Beach to Footbridge and North Beaches, with paid parking at all three. Beachgoers praise the cleanliness, views and beauty, as well as most accessible. Walking the beach is an enjoyable activity throughout the year. Those visiting in winter often have it to themselves!
SLAINTE!
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Wells at Feile Restaurant, 1619 Post Rd., Wells, in a
historic structure that housed the Lindsey Tavern from 1799 until mid 20th century.
Owner Joe Ryan hails from Limerick, Ireland and has been in the pub business all his
life. Get in St. Patty’s mood with Irish favs: Corned Beef, Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and
Chips and Bangers and Mash. Cold draft beef from around the world is available as
well as the largest selection of Irish Whiskey in Maine. feilerestaurantandpub.com,
207-251-4065. Closed Tuesdays.
Spring Promotion
