Mackworth Island Might Be Beautiful but the Former Governor’s Pet Cemetery is Creepy

Beautiful Mackworth Island is a favorite spot for walkers, runners, and dog walkers. The gorgeous groomed paths follow the shores of the small island and wooden staircases lead down to secluded beaches. Fairy houses dot the forested area and swinging benches provide the perfect spot to sit and reflect. Sounds picturesque, right?

It is, but then there's the pet cemetery of former Maine Governor Percival Baxter.

According to Bowdoin College's publication Mackworth Island, Falmouth: Walking, Snowshoeing, Interpretive Trail-Following, Governor Baxter was a well-known dog lover and breeder of Irish setters. When his dogs (14 of them) and his horse (named Jerry Roan) passed away, they were all buried at Mackworth Island. This area of the island was protected when the island was turned into a state park so you can still visit the sites of Governor Baxter's beloved pets when you visit Mackworth Island.

I can't decide if it's creepy or sweet, but as a dog lover I kind of like that Gov. Baxter protected the final resting place of his pets.