The Spirit of Port Clyde
#PortClydeStrong
Amidst recent challenges like the devastating Port Clyde General Store fire in fall 2023 and severe tidal surges in January 2024, and then the death of beloved Port Clyde resident Linda Bean, the resilience of Port Clyde's residents shines brighter than ever.
I had the incredible opportunity to turn my lens to the vibrant community of Port Clyde, Maine, creating a powerful series of portraits sponsored by Herring Gut Coastal Science Center & #PortClydeStrong initiative. My goal was to capture the resilience and spirit of this coastal community, bringing to life the faces and stories of the people who call it home and the resiliency of the community.
Each portrait I took is more than just an image; it’s an intimate glimpse into the lives of Port Clyde's residents, showcasing their connection to the community and their commitment to preserving their way of life. I aimed to reflect the strength, determination, and pride of the individuals who contribute to the community's enduring legacy.
Thanks to Karan Cushman of Cushman Creative for her expertise design work for the banners. The photos will be in various locations all around Port Clyde this summer.
#PortClydeStrong Team
"We live, work and thrive here in our beloved town of Port Clyde and throughout all of the difficulty and hardships our community has faced....this fact has not changed."
- Alane Kennedy, Karan Cushman, Kurt Olesch and Summer Ward
Port Clyde General Store
"Resiliency means to us that we weather every storm, together."
- Ed Martin, Rosemary Cushman, Heather Wilson, Naomi Gettle, Melissa Hopper,Jackie Doherty, Shelia Roberts, Evan O'Neal,Stephanie Stone and Kasandra Mank
Herring Gut Coastal Science Center
"Through education and resilience, we find strength in our ability to embrace change, transform challenges into opportunities and together forge a path to a brighter future."
- Sarah Oktay, Sally Crusan, Alaina Zyhowski
The Monhegan Boat Line
"Built on a granite strong foundation of hard work, respect, integrity and community support our business is resilient. We are Port Clyde Strong."
-Andy and Amy Barstow, owners
Port Clyde Kayaks
"The heart of our community could never be bound by four walls. It is found in the human relationships which are like the granite on which we stand."
- Tamara Cody
owner & registered Maine guide
Off the Docks Lobster
"The tightness of the community can only contribute to a successful rebuild. Stay tuned!"
- James "Spinner" Lee, owner
Village Ice cream & Port Clyde Bakery
"The people of Port Clyde have been able to embrace and conquer many challenges and changes throughout the years. Some faces have changed but the spirit of resiliency lives on. I am proud to call this place home, and to be from a family that has been part of this village for generations."
- Jessica Thompson
Proprietor & Baker
Larry & Diane Bailey
"The natural beauty of the area, the warm and friendly nature of everyone and the opportunities to help our community are unbounded. Living in Port Clyde is both exciting and tranquil."
-Full time residents and community stewards
Christy Christiansen
"I like knowing I have a quiet place to come back to whenever I am away."
Marshall Point Lighthouse & Museum
"Marshall Point Lighthouse has shone throughout other Port Clyde disasters. The steady light is a symbol and reminder that our community is proud, determined and resilient and that is what makes us Port Clyde Strong."
-Nat Lyons
Chairman and Museum Director
Port Clyde Fresh Catch
"To me Port Clyde Strong means we never quit and we don't take no for an answer. We are relentless!"
-Glenn Libby, owner
James Cody
"To me, Port Clyde Strong is a way to show that we are a close community willing to help each other out when it is needed."
-student, sternman & lobsterman
Squid Ink Coffee
"Port Clyde has always been a special place, magical. It is an eclectic mix of people that know the meaning of hard work and the value of community. We won't let disasters quell our love for this town."
-Jan Lipson ,Owner
-Leah Cushman,Barista
James Gregg & Holly
"Port Clyde is a community quick to lend a hand when they see a neighbor in need."
-Resident & Herring gut Coastal Science Center Volunteer
The DipNet Restaurant
"Together we are stronger and more resilient than ever before."
-Lexie Zable,Owner
The Port Clyde Co-op
"Port Clyde is an amazing place and a tight knit community that has persevered through challenges for generations."
-Don Demans, Cassie Clough, Spinner Lee, Cindy Hall & Gerry Cushman
Ryan and Anja Aponte
"For our family, Port Clyde Strong is a reflection of our connected community, full of people who care about each other and the special place we live."