In a picturesque coastal town tucked away on the outskirts of Maine, USA, the tight-knit community of Little Cranberry Island has come alive with the arrival of a newborn baby. This joyous event has breathed new life into the island, marking the first baby to be born on this serene isle in nearly a century.
On the 27th of last month, the cry of a baby was heard resonating through the streets of Little Cranberry Island. Azalea Belle Gray, born to parents Aaron Gray and Erin Fernald Gray, became the sixth child to grace the quaint shores of this island since the days of Aaron Gray and Fernald Gray, who were born in 1927 and 2005, respectively. Azalea’s arrival marks the end of an era on the island.
Azalea’s parents, who split their time between neighboring islands and Little Cranberry, are overjoyed at the prospect of raising their child on an island with such a rich history. Erin shared her excitement, saying, “I don’t have a seventh plan yet. I think my youngest daughter will be happiest if she has friends of the same age to play with. I hope someone has another baby on this island.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. population stands at 331 million, accounting for 4.2% of the world’s population. The number of births and immigrants increased, while the number of deaths rose due to the aging of the baby boom generation, and population growth rates hit their lowest point in 100 years.
However, the population decline on Little Cranberry Island has been a cause for concern. In order to safeguard the island’s future existence, local governments have actively promoted the distribution of broadband networks and have been working to address housing shortages.
Gray, the baby’s mother, is eager to see how much attention her family’s story will receive. She said, “I hope someone has another baby on this island.” Indeed, while the proportion of residents on the island may be small, the birth of Azalea has given them a reason to celebrate and look forward to a brighter future. Little Cranberry Island is no longer just a quaint and sleepy outpost; it’s a community that is ready to welcome new beginnings.
