After Gendall’s purchase of the east end from both Rev. Jordan and Chief Jebernet, the 809 acre parcel changed hands about every 10 ten years. In 1860, John Waite and his heirs began selling small parcels. Many descendents of these earliest owners have either remained on the island or returned here to their heritage and legacies. So with families consisting of a dozen or more offspring being the norm back then, it isn’t unusual today to hear the ever familiar names of Hamilton, Hill, Johnson, Ross, Littlefield, Webber, Ricker, Bennett, Sawyer, Mitchell, Black, Keazer, Hutchinson, and others.

The majority of these hardy islanders were farmers, fishermen, storekeepers, stone sloopers, and clergymen. By the mid 1800’s, farms were going concerns. Much of the island had been cleared and saltwater farms were common.

Chebeague’s rich history spins a tale that melds both common and genteel ways and continues to unfold. Discovered by "summer rusticators" in the late 1800’s, more than 30 hotels and boarding houses were then in operation on this 5 mile by 2 mile island, the largest in Casco Bay. To conveniently serve the many guests in this non-motorized society, who often stayed a month or longer, as many as 6 ferry landings dotted Chebeague’s shore.

Originally part of the west end parcel that Chandler gave to his brother-in-law, Deacon Jonas Mason, a 43 acre saltwater farm facing the ocean and outer Casco Bay islands was purchased by Barnwell Johnson in 1819. It was sold to Joshua Jenks from Little Chebeague Island in 1880. Continuing to operate the farm, Jenks also built a hotel on the parcel. Jenks heirs continue to own the 20 acre peninsula shorefront that still carries the familiar and aptly named "Sunnyside."

Whether it’s the lure of the lobster, the fresh salt air or sparkling blue waters, the warm glow of fond memories, or the sense of timelessness and well being, visitors return to Chebeague again and again. It is a very special, almost magical place. And Sunnyside is its unspoiled best.