📍 Location & Geography
Old Town is a city located in Penobscot County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is situated in the northeastern part of the country. The city is nestled along the Penobscot River and covers a total area of 43.28 square miles, of which 38.03 square miles is land and 5.25 square miles is water. The terrain of Old Town is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and bodies of water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Old Town, Maine are approximately 44.93 degrees North latitude and 68.67 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Old Town is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is located in the central part of Penobscot County. The city is surrounded by several townships and municipalities, including Orono to the south, Milford to the east, and Greenbush to the north.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of Old Town was 7,840. The city has a diverse age range, with a median age of 34.4 years. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races including African American, Native American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino.
🏛️ History
Old Town was originally inhabited by the Penobscot Nation, a tribe of the Wabanaki Confederacy. The city’s name is derived from “Indian Old Town,” which was used to distinguish the Penobscot village from “English” or “Scot-Irish” Old Town. The area was incorporated as a town in 1840 and later as a city in 1891. Old Town’s economy was historically based on lumbering, with several sawmills operating along the Penobscot River.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Old Town is home to a variety of natural features and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is located near the Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the second-largest peatland in the United States, offering hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The Penobscot River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The city also maintains several parks for public use.
🏫 Education
Education in Old Town is managed by the Regional School Unit 34, which operates Old Town Elementary School, Leonard Middle School, and Old Town High School. Higher education is available nearby at the University of Maine in Orono.
🚧 Transportation
Old Town is served by several major roads, including U.S. Route 2 and State Routes 16 and 43. The city is also accessible by water via the Penobscot River. The nearest airport is Bangor International Airport, located approximately 20 miles to the southeast.
📜 Trivia & Events
Old Town is known for its annual Riverfest, a community celebration featuring a variety of activities, including a canoe race on the Penobscot River. The city is also home to the Old Town Canoe Company, a major manufacturer of canoes and kayaks. The Penobscot Nation’s Indian Island Reservation is located within the city limits, and the tribe’s annual powwow is a significant cultural event in the area.