📍 Location & Geography
Newry is a town located in Oxford County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is nestled in the northeastern part of the county and is surrounded by a variety of natural features including the Androscoggin River, the Bear River, and the Sunday River. The town is located in a mountainous region, with the Mahoosuc Range to the west. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and bodies of water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Newry, Maine are approximately 44.48° N latitude and 70.79° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Newry is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of approximately 61.55 square miles (159.41 km²), of which about 61.22 square miles (158.57 km²) is land and 0.33 square miles (0.85 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Newry had a population of 329 residents. The population density was about 5.4 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age of residents was around 44 years.
🏛️ History
Newry was first settled in 1781 and was incorporated as a town in 1805. It was named after the town of Newry in Northern Ireland. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, but it later shifted towards logging due to the abundance of forests in the area. In the 20th century, Newry became a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports, leading to the development of the Sunday River ski resort.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Newry is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is home to a portion of the White Mountain National Forest, which offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Sunday River and Bear River provide opportunities for fishing and boating. The area is also popular for winter sports, with the Sunday River ski resort being one of the largest ski resorts in Maine.
🏫 Education
Educational services in Newry are provided by the Maine School Administrative District 44, which serves several towns in the area. The district operates a number of elementary, middle, and high schools. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities within driving distance, including the University of Maine system.
🚧 Transportation
Newry is accessible by road via Maine State Route 26, which runs through the town. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located about 75 miles south of Newry. Local transportation services, including bus and taxi services, are also available in the region.
📜 Trivia & Events
Newry hosts the annual North American Wife Carrying Championship, a unique event that draws competitors from across the United States and Canada. The event is held at the Sunday River ski resort and involves couples navigating a challenging obstacle course. The town is also a popular destination for leaf-peeping during the fall, with the changing colors of the forest attracting visitors from far and wide.