2002 Annual Report

GIFTS THROUGH TIMEWe come and go, but the land is always here, and the peoplewho love it are the people who own it, for a little while.Willa Cather, O Pioneers!Many peoplefind a reassuringsense ofpermanencewithin thedynamic cyclesof life on Maineislands. Amidstthe restless tidesand seasonalJim Wallisshifts, there isan enduring spirit of place that touchesall who care for these sea-bound lands.Jim Wallis, a devoted friend and supporter of MCHT fordecades, lived his richest hours on Round Island (off Swan’sIsland). “It was a place that truly reflected Jim’s characterand soul,” Jay Espy reflects. Jim’s time there — dwelling in arustic cabin and exploring the environs by boat — promptedan abiding commitment to protect wild landscapes. He placeda conservation easement on the island and served tirelessly foryears on MCHT’s board. Upon his death, Jim left a generousbequest to benefit the Trust’s operating endowment.MCHT received a second bequest in 2002from another dedicated island owner.Jane Sewall spent countless hours in heryouth walking and picnicking on WitchIsland, which lay near her family’s homein South Bristol. When the opportunitylater arose to buy the island, Jane “wantedJane Sewall, circa 1960that island more than anything else in theworld,” her sister Kate Beaudette recalls. To preserve WitchIsland and provide for the public’s continued enjoyment of it,Jane Sewall eventually donated the island to Maine Audubonwith an easement to Maine Coast Heritage Trust (latertransferred to the Damariscotta River Association). Her bequestto support MCHT’s stewardship work will help ensure thatother coastal preserves are well cared for throughout time.22 Maine Coast Heritage Trust