📍 Location & Geography
Kents Hill is a small, unincorporated community located in the town of Readfield in Kennebec County, Maine, United States. It’s situated in the southern part of the state, approximately 12 miles west of the state capital, Augusta. Kents Hill is nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, with the beautiful Torsey Pond to the north and Maranacook Lake to the south.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Kents Hill are approximately 44.3958° N latitude and 70.0579° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Kents Hill is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The community is located in the western part of Kennebec County, which is in the southern part of Maine. The area is characterized by a rural setting, with a mix of forests, lakes, and farmlands.
👥 Population & Demographics
As an unincorporated community within the town of Readfield, Kents Hill does not have its own separate population count. However, the town of Readfield, which includes Kents Hill, had a population of approximately 2,598 as of the 2010 census. The demographics of the area are predominantly White, with a mix of other ethnicities including African American, Native American, Asian, and others.
🏛️ History
The area now known as Kents Hill was first settled in the late 18th century. The community was named after a hill in the area, which was named in honor of a local landowner. Kents Hill is home to the Kents Hill School, a private, co-educational preparatory school founded in 1824, making it one of the oldest schools in the state.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Kents Hill is surrounded by natural beauty, with numerous lakes, forests, and hills in the vicinity. The Torsey Pond Nature Preserve, located to the north of the community, offers hiking trails and opportunities for bird watching. Maranacook Lake, to the south, is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming. The area experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.
🏫 Education
Education in Kents Hill is primarily provided by the Kents Hill School, a private, co-educational college preparatory school. The school serves students in grades 9-12 and offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes arts, athletics, and college preparatory courses.
🚧 Transportation
Due to its rural location, transportation in Kents Hill primarily revolves around private vehicles. The community is served by State Route 17, which provides access to the nearby cities of Augusta and Lewiston. The closest major airport is the Portland International Jetport, located about 70 miles south of Kents Hill.
📜 Trivia & Events
Kents Hill is home to the Alfond Athletics Center, which houses an Olympic-sized ice rink that is used by the Kents Hill School’s hockey teams and is open to the public for skating. The community also hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual Readfield Heritage Days, a celebration of the town’s history and culture.