📍 Location & Geography
Bernard, Maine is a small, picturesque town located in Hancock County, on the southern side of Mount Desert Island. It is part of the larger town of Tremont, which also includes the villages of Bass Harbor, Seal Cove, and West Tremont. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west, offering stunning coastal views and a rich marine environment.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Bernard, Maine are approximately 44.2325° N latitude and 68.3353° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bernard is situated in the Northeastern region of the United States, specifically in the New England area. It is part of the larger Mount Desert Island, which is the largest island off the coast of Maine and the second-largest on the Eastern Seaboard. The town itself covers a relatively small area, with a rural, close-knit community feel.
👥 Population & Demographics
Bernard, being a part of the larger town of Tremont, shares its population statistics with the rest of the town. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Tremont had a population of approximately 1,563 people as of the 2010 census. The demographics of Tremont are predominantly white, with a median age of around 46 years.
🏛️ History
Bernard, like much of Mount Desert Island, has a rich history dating back to the Native American tribes that originally inhabited the area. European settlers arrived in the 1760s, and the town was incorporated as part of Tremont in 1848. The town was named after the local Bernard family, who were early settlers in the area. Bernard’s history is deeply intertwined with the sea, with a long tradition of fishing, boat building, and lobstering.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bernard is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Atlantic Ocean, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The town is close to Acadia National Park, a popular destination for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the rugged Maine coastline. The town’s location on the water also provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Bernard is managed by the Mount Desert Island Regional School System (MDIRSS), which oversees several schools in the area. Students from Bernard typically attend Tremont Consolidated School for elementary and middle school, and Mount Desert Island High School for secondary education.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Bernard is primarily by car, with Maine State Route 102 passing through the town. The Island Explorer, a free shuttle bus service, also operates in the area during the summer months, providing transportation to various points on Mount Desert Island, including Acadia National Park. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located about 18 miles away in Trenton.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bernard is home to Thurston’s Lobster Pound, a popular seafood restaurant that has been serving fresh lobster to locals and tourists alike for over 40 years. The town also hosts various community events throughout the year, including the annual Bernard Summer Solstice 5K, a popular race that attracts runners from around the region.