Downeast Maine has attracted determined smugglers for centuries. The rocky coves, hidden inlets, and remote offshore islands offer ideal cover for the clandestine transport of everything from gypsum and lumber to rum and marijuana.

Town Hill native Audrey Ryan will discuss the modern aspects of smuggling history on Mount Desert Island, exploring marijuana and hashish smuggling in the 70s and 80s. Inspired by her father’s experience dragging up “sea hash,” she has been researching and writing “Downeast Goldmine” since 2011. Her article “Overboard: The Big Catch” was the Boston Globe Magazine’s May 7, 2023 cover story.

MDI Historical Society Director Raney Bench will provide the historic context for Ryan’s talk, explaining Maine’s smuggling history as entrepreneurs dodged tariffs and federal and local laws, navigating both our rocky coastline and changing American politics and culture.

Audrey has a Master's degree and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in English. Currently, Audrey is a psychiatric consultant, professor, and writer. She lives in Newton, MA with her husband and two children.

Sponsored by the Mount Desert Island Historical Society and Northeast Harbor Library. Free and open to the public.

To reserve your seat, please go to: https://nehlibrary.libcal.com/event/10923144

To join virtually via Zoom, log into Zoom at 6pm HERE