📍 Location & Geography
Andover is a charming town located in Oxford County, Maine, United States. It sits in the western part of the state, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The town is characterized by its rolling hills, lush forests, and the picturesque Ellis River that flows through it.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Andover, Maine are approximately 44.6342° N latitude and 70.7444° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Andover is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of 61.31 square miles (158.79 km²), of which 60.86 square miles (157.63 km²) is land and 0.45 square miles (1.17 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Andover was 821. The town has a predominantly white population, with a median age of around 50 years. The gender distribution is relatively balanced, with a slight majority of females.
🏛️ History
Andover was first settled in 1789 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1804. The town was named after Andover, Massachusetts, which was the hometown of some of its earliest settlers. In the 19th century, Andover’s economy was primarily based on farming and logging. The town also had several mills, including sawmills, gristmills, and a starch mill.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Andover is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is surrounded by dense forests, home to a variety of wildlife species. The Ellis River, a popular spot for fishing and canoeing, flows through the town. Andover also has several hiking trails, offering stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. In the winter, these trails are used for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
🏫 Education
Education in Andover is managed by the Maine School Administrative District 44. The town has one elementary school, Andover Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. For middle and high school, students typically attend schools in the nearby town of Rumford.
🚧 Transportation
Andover is accessible by road via Route 5 and Route 120. The town is approximately 80 miles from Portland, Maine’s largest city. The nearest airport is Portland International Jetport, which is about a two-hour drive from Andover.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Andover hosts Old Home Days, a week-long celebration in August that includes a parade, a road race, and various community activities. The town is also home to the Lovejoy Covered Bridge, one of the few remaining covered bridges in Maine and a popular tourist attraction.