📍 Location & Geography
Surry is a charming town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the western shore of the Union River Bay, which leads into the Atlantic Ocean. The town is characterized by a mix of flat coastal plains and gently rolling hills, with a number of streams and ponds dotting the landscape.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Surry, Maine are approximately 44.4922° N latitude and 68.5042° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Surry is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of 50.18 square miles (129.97 km²), of which, 38.58 square miles (99.92 km²) is land and 11.60 square miles (30.04 km²) is water, as per the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, the population of Surry was 1,466. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 46.5 years. The population is predominantly white, making up over 97% of the total. The remaining population is a mix of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Surry was first settled in 1763 and was incorporated as a town in 1803. The town was named after Surrey, England, by settlers who were originally from there. Surry’s economy was historically based on farming, shipbuilding, and lumbering, with the Union River providing a vital transportation route.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Surry is home to a rich natural environment, with its coastal location offering stunning views of the Union River Bay. The town is surrounded by deciduous forests, home to a variety of wildlife. The Carter Nature Preserve is a popular spot for hiking and bird watching. The town also has several ponds and streams, offering opportunities for fishing and boating.
🏫 Education
Education in Surry is managed by the Surry School Department. The town has one elementary school, the Surry Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend either Ellsworth High School or George Stevens Academy in the nearby towns.
🚧 Transportation
Surry is served by a number of state routes, including State Route 172 and State Route 176. The town is approximately a 30-minute drive from Ellsworth, the county seat of Hancock County. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located about 18 miles away in Trenton.
📜 Trivia & Events
Surry is known for its annual events that bring the community together. The Surry Strawberry Festival in July is a popular event featuring local strawberries, homemade shortcake, and live music. The town also hosts an annual Christmas Craft Fair. A notable trivia about Surry is that it was the filming location for the 1999 movie “The Thirteenth Warrior.”