The History and Legacy of Mackworth Island

Mackworth Island, known as “Menickoe” or “Clump of Pines” by the Native Americans, has a rich and varied history. The island was originally owned by local Native Americans until 1631 when it was ‘bought’ by an early settler/colonizer named Sir Ferdinando Gorges. 3 years later he gifted it to a man named Arthur Mackworth. After Mackworth’s death, the island changed hands many times before finally being purchased by James Phinney Baxter, the father of Governor Percival Baxter, in 1885.

James Phinney Baxter, a canning magnate and six-time mayor of Portland, built a large summer home on the island for his family, which included his wife and seven children. The island, teeming with horses and Irish Setters, was a haven for these animals, living their best lives in an open-range existence.

In 1921, Governor Percival Baxter came into possession of Mackworth Island following the death of his father. That same year, he became Maine’s 53rd Governor, a position he held until 1925. During his tenure, the governor donated vast tracks of land to the state of Maine, which is now known as Baxter State Park; including the crown jewel of the Maine wilderness, Mt. Katahdin.

The Legacy of Governor Percival Baxter

Governor Baxter was a staunch advocate for animal rights and belonged to numerous Humane Societies across the US. He was once named “America’s Greatest Humane Governor” by the New England Anti-Vivisection Society.

In 1953, Governor Baxter sold Mackworth Island to the state of Maine for $1.00. He also donated $500,000 to help build the Baxter School for the Deaf, and an additional $175,000 for the causeway between the mainland and the island. The only provision he attached to the sale was that the Pet Cemetery on the island be left untouched and maintained forever.

The Pet Cemetery

The Pet Cemetery on Mackworth Island was built for Governor Baxter’s 14 Irish Setters. He had been fond of Irish Setters since he was nine years old and even wrote a children’s book titled “My Irish Setter Dogs,” which told of his experiences raising Irish Setters from childhood through adulthood.

The last dog he buried in the cemetery was named Garryowen, nicknamed Garry II. Garry II was with Governor Baxter throughout his time in the State House. When Garry II died, Governor Baxter ordered all flags in the state of Maine to be flown at half-mast. This act, while controversial, underscored his deep love for his pets and his commitment to animal rights.

The natural history of Mackworth Island is intertwined with the legacy of the Baxter family, specifically Governor Percival Proctor Baxter. His love for animals and his commitment to their welfare is evident in the pet cemetery he deeded to the State of Maine, to be perpetually maintained and cared for, and to be enjoyed by those who take the time to visit.