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Belvin
Public Access: Access is from the beach at Chandler's Cove only and only along path to the Ancient Burial Site or for educational purposes upon request.
Parking: Park vehicle on the town owned land adjacent to the Belvin Property and walk along the beach to the entrance of the path at the easement.
Description and History:
The Belvin property, which lies along Chandler's Cove on Chebeague Island, is extremely unique because it contains an Ancient Burying Ground know as the "Indian Cemetery." There are 45 standing stones, but there are no inscriptions as was typical of early Maine cemeteries. Many of the stones, from local beach and ledge rock outcroppings, are much deteriorated from weather and erosion, and others have fallen over, so the exact number is unknown. The markers are oriented to face East and West... into the rising and setting sun.
The internments are likely to date from the early 18th to 19th centuries. We have no evidence that Native Americans were buried here. Those who lie at rest here are most likely European settlers from Long Island, Cliff Island as well as Chebeague. This spot may have been favored because of the depth of soil and easy access by water, particularly at high tide.
The United States flag is in memory of David Upton who is buried here in an unknown location. Upton was a Minuteman and soldier in the American Revolution, a patriot veteran of the Battle of Bunker Hill and a much-respected citizen of Chebeague following his arrival after American Independence. When he died in 1845 the Upton family buried him here.
Many years later, in 1933, the United States Government sent a commemorative marker in his honor which was placed in the Methodist Church Cemetery at a special Memorial Day ceremony. His remains are at rest here in Chandler's Cove. It is likely burials continued here until the mid 19th Century when internments moved to the cemetery adjacent to the Methodist Church on North Road. Descendants of David Upton still live on Chebeague. An active effort is currently underway to identify other persons buried here, and to verify the many local legends about this special place. You can join this effort.
In the 20th Century the cemetery was maintained by local families and organizations. Over time the Ancient Burying Ground became overgrown with alders and with brush completely obscuring the stones. Brush was cleared and the ruined fence removed in 1987, and the granite posts and flat stones on the perimeter were put in place marking the extent of the original fence boundary.
The cemetery is now protected by a Conservation Easement held by the Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust. It is maintained by the residents of the adjacent home, which remains private property. An active effort is currently underway to identify other persons buried here, and to verify the many local legends about this special place. You can join this effort by sharing any knowledge you might have.
Written by Leila Bisharat and William Belvin, June 30 2005