Isle au Haut, Maine is an island community off the coast of Maine with only one gift shop and general store as the only businesses on the island. The population fluctuates between 45 and 50 people, and the community is trying to attract families to ensure its survival. Last year, they used social media and their official website to attract potential new residents, and a young family from central Massachusetts, the Waters family, took the bait. Despite skepticism from others, the Waters family made the move to the remote island and are embracing the unique lifestyle that Isle au Haut offers.
The Waters family values solitude and simplicity over convenience and have adapted to life on the island. They raise some of their own food, work multiple jobs, and enjoy more bonding time with their children. The children attend the small K-8 schoolhouse on the island, where Flynn is one of only two students. Despite the challenges that come with living on a remote island, such as limited resources and opportunities, the Waters find the lifestyle on Isle au Haut to be rewarding and wholesome. They view the tight-knit community and slower pace of life as benefits rather than burdens.
There has been a decline in the number of isolated island communities in Maine over the years, with only a little over a dozen remaining. Attracting new residents who are willing to embrace a different way of life is crucial for the survival of these communities. The Waters family represents a new wave of people seeking a simpler and more connected way of life, away from the conveniences and distractions of modern society. They are willing to work hard, adapt to challenges, and invest in the community by choosing to stay on the island despite the obstacles they face.
The community on Isle au Haut recognizes the importance of attracting families to ensure the long-term viability of the island. Bob Olney, president of the Isle au Haut Community Development Corporation, emphasizes the need to attract families who are resilient and creative. He acknowledges that the lifestyle on the island may not be for everyone but is appealing to those who value solitude and a sense of community. The Waters family’s decision to move to Isle au Haut is seen as a positive step towards revitalizing the community and preserving its unique way of life.
The Waters’ choice to make Isle au Haut their home reflects a larger trend of people seeking alternative lifestyles and communities that offer a deeper sense of connection and fulfillment. The family’s willingness to embrace the challenges and rewards of living on a remote island demonstrates their commitment to a simpler way of life. Their story highlights the importance of preserving isolated communities and the need for individuals who are willing to invest in these unique places. Isle au Haut and other remote island communities in Maine offer a glimpse into a different way of living, one that values simplicity, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
