Monhegan Island

Island in Lincoln County, southwestern Maine; area 6.5 sq km/2.5 sq mi, population (1990) 100. the settlement of Monhegan Plantation includes Monhegan village and neighbouring Manana Island, in the Gulf of Maine, 18 km/11 mi east-southeast of Pemaquid Point.

It is thought that the waters around Monhegan Island, which are considered one of world's best fishing grounds, were exploited by Europeans from their very first expeditions to North America. Captain John Smith landed here in 1614. Monhegan was a base for explorers, a port of call for Europe-bound vessels, a trading and shipbuilding centre, and, from time to time, a stronghold for pirates. In 1813, the US privateer Enterprise overcame the British vessel Boxer in an offshore battle. Since 1878, prominent painters have worked here, including Rockwell Kent, who made the island popular as an artists' colony. The picturesque beauty of the island, particularly its 46 m/150 ft-high cliffs and Cathedral Woods, attract seasonal visitors. Lobster fishing is the main permanent occupation.