Charlotte Gale of New Jersey was more than up to the challenge when she purchased Duck Ledges Island, a 1.5-acre unspoiled Maine island rich in wildlife that was listed for $339,000 in July.
The previous owner, Billy Milliken, had one unique requirement – that the new owner spends at least one night alone in the small cottage on the island. Now, Gale is set to share the island’s “majesty” with the world.
Uninhabitable Island with a Unique Selling Strategy
Living on a remote island might sound like a dream come true, but the rocky terrain of Milliken Island makes it uninhabitable to man or beast during the months of October to May. Despite this, the island’s unique selling strategy and unspoiled features, has made it receive considerable attention.
Stephen King, the prolific author of horror and supernatural-fiction, has even tweeted about the island saying, “There’s a novel here, just waiting to be written.” Certainly, this is one remote island that is worth exploring!
Charlotte Gale Becomes Steward of Duck Ledges
Charlotte Gale from New Jersey recently had the honor of becoming the new steward of Duck Ledges, an island off the coast of Maine. Despite the attention the island received, Gale was undeterred and successfully convinced Milliken that she was the perfect fit for the role.
She shared with Insider that she was never intimidated by the prospect of spending a night alone in the cottage, located just 20 feet from the water’s edge. With her newfound responsibility and courage, Charlotte Gale is an inspiring example of the power of determination.
Spend a Night and Feel the Magic of Ducks Island
Billy Milliken isn’t just looking for any buyer for Ducks Island – he wants the right one. That’s why he’s asking potential buyers to spend a night on the island before he makes his decision.
Two parties have already done it, and three more are scheduled to visit in the coming days. Milliken believes the natural landscape and quirks of the island will speak for themselves, and that he’ll just know when he finds the right buyer. He says it’s going to come from his gut, and he’ll know when it’s the right choice. Will it be you?
Discover the Unique Charm of Ducks Ledges
Billy Milliken was excited to purchase Ducks Ledges, an island in disrepair, with a dream to build a brand-new cottage. Given today’s strict building laws in proximity to water, it’s a rare find.
Milliken noted that it would be difficult to erect the same structure on another island like Ducks Ledges. What makes it even more special is the lack of trees, granting unobstructed views of the water. Enjoy a front-row seat to the stunning scenery and discover the unique charm of Ducks Ledges.
Enjoy the Cozy Comfort of Billy Milliken’s Island Cabin
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and head to Billy Milliken’s cozy cabin on his private island. Enjoy the comfort of two beds in the loft, and if you’re looking for more space, Milliken even keeps air mattresses for additional overnight guests.
Over the years, he has shared the island with his family and friends, who often make day trips and appreciate the peace and serenity of the island. Don’t miss out on the perfect getaway destination – come and explore Milliken’s Island!
Built to Withstand Any Storm – Billy Milliken’s Cabin
Billy Milliken is no stranger to storms. His cabin, built with the rugged environment in mind, is located close to the water and is at risk of flooding during storms. However, despite the waters proximity to the property between October and May, the cabin remains intact.
Milliken says that there have been three different times when storm surges have come up to the cottage, but it has never damaged the structure or flooring. Built to withstand any storm, Milliken’s cabin is a testament to its strength and resilience.
Surviving the Elements on a Remote Island
Billy Milliken loves the island for its summer beauty, but he’s also experienced the challenges of wintertime conditions. He recalls one particularly hot summer when the ocean’s cooling effect brought much-needed relief. “It was the best night’s sleep I ever had,” he said.
But wintertime on the island requires a different kind of endurance, with ice, snow, and storms. Milliken has a friend who tried living off the island’s resources for three days during a storm. “He really roughed it,” Milliken said, “and he was ready to come home.”
Witnessing Nature’s Unspoiled Beauty on the Island
Billy Milliken is no stranger to the wildlife on the island. From lobsters and seabirds to eagles and seals, Milliken has seen it all. Every year, the seals give birth to their pups around the island. Whenever Milliken finds live seal pups, he calls the Marine Mammal Rescue hotline to rescue them.
“It’s so unspoiled there,” Milliken said. “You experience nature — it hasn’t changed.” The island is a beautiful reminder of the natural world that we can still enjoy in its original form. Join Milliken on this unique adventure as he witnesses nature’s unspoiled beauty.
“The One” Who Found Her Dream Home on the Isles of Maine: A Duck Ledges Story
Gale had dreamt of living in Maine since high school, and this June, her sleepless nights scrolling through homes for sale finally paid off. She was invited to spend one night on the island of Duck Ledges to prove herself worthy of the house and, when she arrived with only a single waterproof backpack, the islanders knew she was “the one.”
A licensed massage therapist, Gale was picked up by boat and taken on a tour, where she fell in love with the place and the islanders with her. She had found her dream home, and the feeling was mutual.
Finding a Sense of Home on Duck Ledges
Gale was surprised when Milliken accepted her offer for Duck Ledges at the asking price. When he asked her if she had felt a sense of loneliness on the island, Gale’s response “If you truly love yourself, you’re never really alone” made him decide.
He told her that he had received 300 offers way above $339,000, but he chose hers as he believed she’d treat the island with respect. At the closing of the property, Milliken was in tears at the thought of leaving, but Gale reassured him that he was always welcome and had gained a family friend.
Gale’s Brave Journey to a Slice of Heaven
Gale spent four nights in a row on Duck Ledges with only a camp stove, a foldable bathtub and a portable toilet in July. Despite the lack of modern luxuries and the raging storms, Gale said she felt a sense of peace and contentment on the island.
She befriended the local inhabitants and watched the sunset on the horizon – a “little slice of heaven”. Gale’s bravery to spend so much time alone on the island has been praised by locals. She says she always felt safe on Duck Ledges.
An Idyllic Island Paradise: Gale’s Dream to Preserve Duck Ledges
Gale is devoted to preserving the peacefulness of Duck Ledges, an idyllic island paradise she now calls home. She dreams of growing flowers, shares slices of the island with visitors, and plans to host writing and cooking workshops, as well as massage-therapy sessions.
Gale wants to keep the island as untouched as possible, with a few small changes such as a portable toilet and a gardening shed. To inquire about a visit, visit Gale’s website. Come and experience the beauty of Duck Ledges for yourself!
