📍 Location & Geography
Bailey Island is a picturesque location situated in Cumberland County, Maine. This island is part of the town of Harpswell, located on Casco Bay in the Gulf of Maine, part of the Atlantic Ocean. The island is primarily residential and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including rocky shorelines, rolling landscapes, and captivating ocean views.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Bailey Island, Maine are approximately 43.7431° N latitude and 70.0004° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bailey Island is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is one of the three large islands, including Orr’s Island and Great Island, that form the town of Harpswell. The island stretches over an area of 387 acres, with a length of 3 miles and a width of 1.5 miles at its widest point.
👥 Population & Demographics
As Bailey Island is part of Harpswell town, it shares the town’s population. As per the U.S. Census Bureau’s data from 2019, Harpswell’s population was estimated to be around 4,740. The island is primarily a residential area, with a mix of year-round and seasonal residents. The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with a median age of around 57 years, reflecting its popularity as a retirement destination.
🏛️ History
Bailey Island was originally inhabited by Native Americans, specifically the Abenaki tribe. It was first settled by European colonists in the 17th century. The island is named after Reverend Thomas Bailey, who came to the island in the mid-1700s. The island was initially used for farming and fishing, and over time, it developed into a popular summer resort destination. In 1928, the Bailey Island Bridge, a historic and unique cribstone bridge, was constructed, connecting Bailey Island to Orr’s Island.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bailey Island offers a rich natural environment, characterized by its rocky coastline, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife. The island is home to several species of seabirds, and seals can often be spotted off the coast. Land’s End, a public beach at the southern tip of the island, is a popular spot for nature lovers. The island’s natural beauty and tranquil environment make it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing.
🏫 Education
Education on Bailey Island falls under the jurisdiction of the School Administrative District 75, which serves Harpswell and other nearby towns. While there are no schools located directly on Bailey Island, students typically attend schools on the mainland, including Harpswell Coastal Academy, Mt. Ararat Middle School, and Mt. Ararat High School.
🚧 Transportation
Access to Bailey Island is primarily via the Bailey Island Bridge, the only cribstone bridge in the world. The island can also be reached by boat. The nearest major airport is the Portland International Jetport, located approximately 30 miles away. On the island, transportation is typically by private vehicle, bicycle, or on foot.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bailey Island hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Lobster Bake and the Bailey Island Art Show. The island is also home to the world’s only cribstone bridge, a unique structure built with granite slabs laid in a cribbage-like pattern. This allows the tide to flow freely through it. The Bailey Island Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.