Beals is a town in Washington County located primarily on Beals and Great Wass islands, together with more than a dozen smaller islands. It was incorporated on April 7, 1925, from part of Jonesport. The Jonesport–Beals Bridge crosses Moosabec Reach and connects the communities.
Fishing and community life
Fishing and lobstering have long been central to the town’s working identity. Boats, coves, wharves, and sheltered reaches reflect a community closely connected to the Gulf of Maine. Jonesport–Beals High School has also been associated with successful basketball teams that frequently reached state tournaments.
Local stories
Local tradition distinguishes two figures whose stories have sometimes been combined. Manwarren Beal Jr. came to the area in 1775 and is remembered in accounts connected with the Revolutionary War. Barnabas Coffin Beal III, born on the island in 1835, became known as “Long Barney” or “Tall Barney.” Both became subjects of regional folklore.
Population record
The historical census figures below show a relatively stable population from 1970 through 1990, followed by declines recorded in 2000 and 2010. Similar changes occurred in a number of Washington County communities during that period.
Town government
The source record identifies Beals as using a town meeting and select board form of local government. For background on this municipal structure, see local government.
