📍 Location & Geography
Vanceboro is a town in Washington County, Maine, United States. It is located on the eastern border of Maine, adjacent to the Canadian province of New Brunswick. The town is situated along the St. Croix River, which forms the international boundary between the U.S. and Canada. The town encompasses a total area of 37.71 square miles, of which 36.66 square miles is land and 1.05 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Vanceboro are approximately 45.56 degrees north latitude and 67.43 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Vanceboro is part of the Downeast region of Maine, a term that refers to the eastern coastal part of the state. It is part of Washington County, the easternmost county in the United States. The town is characterized by its rural setting, with vast forests, rivers, and lakes dominating the landscape.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Vanceboro had a population of 140 people. The population density was 3.8 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was predominantly White. The median age in the town was 52.5 years, indicating a somewhat older population compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Vanceboro was incorporated as a town in 1874. The town was named after landowner and railway entrepreneur William Vance. The town’s history is closely tied to the lumber industry and the railway, which provided access to markets for the town’s timber resources. The railway also brought visitors to the area, contributing to the development of the town’s tourism industry.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Vanceboro is surrounded by natural beauty, with the St. Croix River, numerous lakes, and vast forests offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, and various bird species. The area’s natural resources have traditionally supported industries such as fishing, hunting, and forestry.
🏫 Education
Education in Vanceboro is managed by the AOS 90 school district. The town does not have its own school, so students attend school in nearby towns. High school students typically attend Woodland Junior-Senior High School in Baileyville, while younger students attend Woodland Elementary School.
🚧 Transportation
The main mode of transportation in Vanceboro is by road, with U.S. Route 1 serving as the main highway through the town. The town is also served by a railway line, which is primarily used for freight transportation. The nearest airport is in Bangor, approximately 100 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Vanceboro is known for the Vanceboro International Bridge, a railway bridge that crosses the St. Croix River and connects the town with St. Croix, New Brunswick in Canada. The bridge was the site of a notable incident in 1915 when a German spy attempted to sabotage a Canadian railway line by planting a bomb on the bridge. The event is commemorated with a plaque in the town.