📍 Location & Geography
Belgrade is a charming town located in Kennebec County in the state of Maine, United States. It is nestled in the heart of the Belgrade Lakes region, which is a chain of seven freshwater lakes. The town covers a total area of 57.73 square miles, of which 46.59 square miles is land and 11.14 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Belgrade are 44°33′13″N latitude and 69°51′21″W longitude. It is situated in the northeastern part of the United States.
🗺️ Region & Area
Belgrade is part of the New England region of the United States. It is situated in central Maine, approximately 12 miles northwest of the state capital, Augusta. The town is surrounded by several other towns including Sidney to the south, Rome to the north, and Oakland to the east.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the United States Census Bureau, the population of Belgrade was approximately 3,189 as of 2019. The town has a diverse age group with a median age of 44.5 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly white, followed by a small percentage of other races.
🏛️ History
Belgrade was first settled in 1774 and was incorporated as a town in 1796. It was named after Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, in honor of John Davis, a merchant from Dracut, who traded in Belgrade and was captured by Algerians. The town’s history is deeply rooted in agriculture, but it also became a popular summer resort area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Belgrade is known for its beautiful lakes, forests, and wildlife. The town is part of the Belgrade Lakes region, which includes Great Pond, Long Pond, Messalonskee Lake, and others. These lakes offer recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The town also has several nature trails and parks, providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.
🏫 Education
Education in Belgrade is managed by the Messalonskee School District. The town has an elementary school, Belgrade Central School, which serves students from kindergarten to grade 5. For middle and high school, students attend schools in the nearby town of Oakland.
🚧 Transportation
Belgrade is accessible by Maine State Route 27, which runs through the town, connecting it to Augusta and other nearby towns. The town does not have its own public transportation system, so residents typically rely on private vehicles. The nearest airports are Augusta State Airport, about 12 miles away, and Portland International Jetport, about 78 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Belgrade is known for its annual summer event, the Belgrade Lakes Market Day, which features local crafts, food, and entertainment. The town is also home to the Belgrade Public Library, which hosts various community events and programs throughout the year. In addition, Belgrade was the setting for several novels by American author Elisabeth Ogilvie.