Boon Island: A True Story Of Mutiny Shipwreck And Cannibalism
Boon Island is a small, rocky island located off the coast of Maine, United States. It is famous for the gruesome events that took place there in the early 19th century. The story of the Boon Island shipwreck, mutiny, and cannibalism is one of the most harrowing tales in American maritime history. In this article, we will delve deeper into the story of Boon Island and the events that took place there.
The History of Boon Island
Boon Island is a small, rocky island located about six miles off the coast of Maine. It is only 300 feet long and 700 feet wide, and is uninhabitable for humans. The island gets its name from its first recorded owner, Captain William Boon, who purchased it from the government in 1710. Boon Island was used as a navigational aid for sailors, and a lighthouse was built on the island in 1855.
The Shipwreck on Boon Island
In December of 1710, a group of eleven sailors were on their way to Boston from England when their ship, the Nottingham Galley, ran aground on Boon Island. The sailors were stranded on the island with no food, no water, and no shelter. The weather was harsh, and the sea was rough, making it impossible for them to be rescued. The sailors were forced to survive on seaweed and shellfish, and they soon began to starve.
The Mutiny on Boon Island
After several weeks of being stranded on the island, the sailors began to lose hope of being rescued. They turned on their captain, John Deane, and accused him of hoarding the little food they had left. On January 19, 1711, the sailors mutinied and killed Deane. They then drew lots to determine who would be killed and eaten next.
The Cannibalism on Boon Island
Over the next few weeks, the sailors resorted to cannibalism in order to survive. They ate the bodies of their dead crewmates, and even boiled and ate their leather shoes. By the time they were rescued on February 8, 1711, only five of the original eleven sailors were still alive. They were found by a passing fishing boat, who took them to safety.
The Legacy of Boon Island
The story of the Boon Island shipwreck, mutiny, and cannibalism has become a part of American maritime folklore. The island is now home to a lighthouse, which was built in 1855, and is still in operation today. The lighthouse serves as a reminder of the harrowing events that took place on Boon Island over 300 years ago.
Conclusion
The story of Boon Island is a tragic one, but it is also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The sailors who were stranded on the island faced unimaginable hardships, but they did everything they could to survive. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.