📍 Location & Geography
Bethel is a charming town located in Oxford County, Maine, United States. It is nestled in the western part of the state, known for its scenic landscapes. The town is surrounded by mountains, including the famous Sunday River Whitecap and the Mahoosuc Range. The Androscoggin River flows through the town, adding to its natural beauty.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Bethel, Maine are approximately 44.4° N latitude and 70.8° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bethel spans a total area of about 67.8 square miles (175.6 square kilometers), according to the United States Census Bureau. This area includes 67.1 square miles of land and 0.7 square miles of water bodies. The town is part of the New England region, specifically in the western area of Maine.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2020 Census, Bethel has a population of approximately 2,607 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.8 years. The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with 50.1% of the population being female and 49.9% male. The majority of the population is of White ethnicity, followed by smaller percentages of Hispanic, Asian, and African American residents.
🏛️ History
Bethel was first settled by Europeans in 1774 and was incorporated as a town in 1796. It was originally named Sudbury Canada by the settlers, but was later renamed Bethel, meaning “House of God” in Hebrew. Bethel’s history is deeply rooted in agriculture, but it also became known for its involvement in the lumber industry in the 19th century. In the 20th century, the town transitioned into a popular tourist destination, particularly for winter sports and outdoor activities.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bethel is renowned for its stunning natural environment. The town is surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest, offering residents and visitors a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. The Androscoggin River provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. The town is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Bethel Pathway and the Bingham Forest.
🏫 Education
Bethel’s education system is under the jurisdiction of the Maine School Administrative District 44. The town hosts several educational institutions, including Crescent Park Elementary School, Telstar Middle School, and Telstar High School. For higher education, Bethel is in close proximity to the University of Maine and several community colleges.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Bethel is predominantly by road, with U.S. Route 2 and State Route 26 being the main highways serving the town. The town is also served by the Portland International Jetport, which is approximately 70 miles away. For local transportation, there are taxi services and limited public transportation options.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bethel is known for its vibrant community events. The most famous of these is the annual “MollyOckett Day,” a festival that celebrates the area’s Native American heritage. The town also holds the record for building the world’s largest snow woman, named “Olympia,” in 2008. In winter, Bethel becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding, with the Sunday River Ski Resort attracting visitors from all over the country.