Peaks Island is one of the most famous and beautiful islands situated in Casco Bay, Maine. It is 3 miles away from the city of Portland. The island is only accessible by boats. The island is operated under Casco Bay Lines, the island has its elementary school, library, and police station. The island has mesmerizing views which every visitor can enjoy, one can travel the island by cycling or by simply walking. This place was famous for being a holiday destination in the late 19th century. But those days are all gone a long time ago.

History of Peaks Island

The earlier name of the island was Pond but it was changed by George cleeve and the new name was Michale’s Island it was around in 1637. Later the island was purchased by John Palmer and it again changed its name to Palmer’s Island. In the late 19th century when the island was popular among the locals as a beautiful Holiday destination it was known as Coney Island. At that time people only came here for day tours and picnicking. Soon after, when the town was settled in the Peaks island it became known as Peaks Island. Many believe it was named after Joseph Peake, a soldier in Captain. Dominicus Jordan’s Company in 1744. But there was no proof that the island was named after him. In 1896 the population of the island was 343 and mostly covered with hardwood and small size bushes.  

During the time of the Revolution, there were hardly three houses on the island. At the time of World War II, the island was home to a large number of military defense installations, including the largest structure Battery Steele.

Abandonment of Peaks Island 

Due to the 200% increase in the taxes of living in Peaks island by the state government, many of the residents have left the island. As this place was too costly to live here in Peaks Island. The most abandoned place located in Peaks Island is hidden among the woods and forest of Peaks Island. This is an abandoned fortification of Peaks Island from World War II. During World War II, authorities thought that the fight must come to American soil so they made a navy fort in Peaks Island. The main facility of the fort is its Battery Steel which is now covered under graffiti and severely damaged due to no maintenance. This Battery steel, the largest battery on the land at the time, is now overgrown and fully isolated.

Recent situation of Peaks Island

Today Peaks Island is a famous tourist attraction. Many people come every year in summer to enjoy the beaches of Peaks island and to witness the natural beauty of peaks Island. The two main public beaches of peaks island are Sandy beach, Cairan beach.

The Battery steel is still abandoned and hides among the forest of Peaks Island. This is one of the tourist attractions of Peaks Island.