Strange Island Off Canadian Coast Leads To A Baffling Conflict
Chances are you've never heard of Machias Seal Island. Sitting between the Gulf of Maine in the U.S. and Canada’s Bay of Fundy, this tiny landmass has been the subject of a big controversy. Both the United States and Canada have claimed it as their own, but a local fisherman named Barna Norton took that debate to a new level when he recently approached the courts with a jaw-dropping claim.
Sailing to Machias
Barna’s connection to Machias Seal Island started in 1940 when he was just 25. Setting sail from his hometown of Jonesport, Maine, he traveled through 20 miles of water to reach the rocky island. This was the start of countless trips from one shore to another, but he never could've foreseen how much Machias Seal Island would mean to him.
Bird Spot
That summer, Barna invited his dad and a few tourists to join him for some birdwatching and picnicking on Machias Seal Island. Puffins, razorbills, murres, and Arctic terns flock to the small spot to rest and nest, making it a perfect draw for avid birdwatchers.
A Lengthy Connection
That summer sailing expedition was the first of many that Barna held. For 60 years, he’d regularly take loads of visitors and locals to tour and picnic on the island and during those numerous voyages, he’d become quite partial to the area.
Where is it?
Barna isn’t the only one interested in Machias Seal Island — both the United States and Canada stake claims to it. Canada even built a lighthouse there to give more credence to its ownership. America’s evidence for ownership, however, dates back to the 1700s. It's a rare touchy subject between the two allies.
