📍 Location & Geography
Stonington is a charming town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the southern tip of Deer Isle, an island in Penobscot Bay. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on three sides, which provides stunning coastal views and a maritime atmosphere. Stonington’s terrain is characterized by rolling hills, rocky coastlines, and dense forests.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Stonington, Maine are approximately 44.1456° N latitude and 68.6669° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Stonington is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It covers a total area of approximately 37.76 square miles (97.79 km²), of which 10.13 square miles (26.24 km²) is land and 27.63 square miles (71.55 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Stonington has a population of around 1,034 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Stonington is around 47 years, which is higher than the national average. The town has a slightly higher percentage of female residents compared to males.
🏛️ History
Stonington was originally inhabited by the Native American tribe, the Tarrantines. European settlers first arrived in the area in the 1760s. The town was incorporated in 1897 and was named after Stonington, Connecticut. Stonington’s history is deeply rooted in the maritime industry, particularly in lobster fishing and granite quarrying. Many of the town’s historic buildings and sites reflect this rich maritime heritage.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Stonington is blessed with a rich natural environment, featuring a beautiful coastline, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The town is home to several nature preserves and parks, including the Crockett Cove Woods Preserve and the Edgar M. Tennis Preserve. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the local flora and fauna. The town’s coastal location also makes it a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Stonington is served by the Deer Isle-Stonington School District. The town has one elementary school, the Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School, and one high school, the Deer Isle-Stonington High School. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities in the larger Hancock County area.
🚧 Transportation
Stonington is accessible by road via State Route 15, which connects the town to the mainland. The town also has a municipal airport, the Stonington Municipal Airport, for general aviation. For maritime transportation, Stonington has a working harbor that serves commercial and recreational vessels.
📜 Trivia & Events
Stonington is known as the “Lobster Capital of Maine” due to its significant lobster fishing industry. The town hosts the annual Stonington Lobster Boat Races, an event that attracts visitors from across the region. Stonington is also home to the historic Stonington Opera House, which hosts a variety of cultural events, including theater performances, concerts, and film screenings.