The Cousins
We are the present "Core" group collectively known as the "Cousins". But this is not our group. It is your group. We are the stimulus for what we hope will be an organization that outlives us and provides ongoing support for local history for many years.
Our Story
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Gathered around the big kitchen table during a recent “cousins’ lunch” are, from left: Connie Johnson, Chip Black, Melinda Richter, Gerry York, Laurie Smith, and Beth York. The group is in the process of incorporating as the Harpswell Islands Genealogy and History Center. (Doug Warren photo)
Our group of cousins share the family name "DOUGHTY", Our ancestry can be traced back 7 generations on the islands of Harpswell in Casco Bay. Enjoying each others company and having a common interest in family genealogy and local history, we began sharing lunch together each Wednesday. Pictures were scanned and labeled, and information and stories were recorded. Many "guests" were invited to attend and show or tell what they had found in the attic.
In August 2023, what started as "Cousins Lunch" has now become the beginnings of the Harpswell Islands Genealogy and History Center where we hope to compile and preserve stories and photos for the future.
You do not have to be a "cousin" to be a part of this project to make Harpswell Island history available to you and your neighbors and we encourage you to invite yourself to come have lunch and either ask questions or show your family heirlooms and share stories. Call or talk with any of the Cousins for details, times and location.
The "Cousins" are all either grandchildren or g-grandchildren of George Washington Doughty and Jenny Mary Munsey
Gerry York is a retired shipbuilder and President of HIGHC
Beth (Johnson) York is a retired teacher and Secretary of HIGHC. She and husband Bob live on Orr's Island.
Chip Black was raised on Orr's Island and was a home contractor for many years along with operating the Bailey Island Motel for better than twenty seasons.
Melinda (Harris) Richter is the owner and chief cook at Island Candy Company and Treasurer of HIGHC
Laurie (Johnson) Smith is a Bailey Islander. She and husband Eric own and operate Oceanside Builders.
Connie Johnson