residency on norton island

The nature of this ten day program is straightforward, even rudimentary. This is a remote, rustic wilderness, with facilities to accommodate a select group of residents who sometimes share their work after dinner but are otherwise there to work uninterrupted. The environment is beautiful, extreme and unadorned. Each resident is required to work with their fellow residents to conserve water and electricity—and to help clean up after dinner. Norton Island is an outdoorsy experience that may come as a shock at first to those visitors who have spent time at other residencies. Please note the following before applying.

• Cabins have no running water or facilities. Bathrooms and showers are located at the main lodge.

• Each cabin is charming and set far apart other cabins for maximum privacy and work conditions.

• Expect rain. And fog. Expect glorious days of sun, but expect rain and fog, too. It can be cold at night. Sometimes it is cold during the day. Also, Maine summers can be forgivingly mild and sun drenched. Prepare accordingly for the ever unknown.

• It is very dark at night. There are constellations in the heavens you won’t believe.

• The island is about one mile from the mainland. The closest mainland town is the village of Jonesport, ME. Travel to and from the island is done by boats, which are used for emergencies, supplies, and planned trips only.

• There is wildlife on the island—most of it amazing, some of it icky, all of it harmless.

• Travel to Bangor Airport (if flying) or to Hopkins Point Road in Jonesport (if driving) is the responsibility of the resident. We can connect residents who are arriving at Bangor Airport to self-driving residents who might offer a pick-up and ride.

• The residency provides no connection to the Internet. Cellular service is reliable and residents use phones as hotspots.