📍 Location & Geography
Brooklin is a picturesque town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the Blue Hill Peninsula, surrounded by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The town covers a total area of 41.18 square miles, of which 27.44 square miles is land and 13.74 square miles is water. Brooklin’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and a beautiful coastline dotted with small islands.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Brooklin, Maine are approximately 44°15′35″ N latitude and 68°34′58″ W longitude. The town is positioned in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).
🗺️ Region & Area
Brooklin is part of the Downeast region of Maine, known for its rugged coastlines and quaint, historic towns. It is located in the southern part of Hancock County. The town is surrounded by several bodies of water, including the Atlantic Ocean, Eggemoggin Reach, and the Benjamin River.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Brooklin had a population of about 824 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 50.8 years. The population is predominantly Caucasian, with a small percentage of other ethnicities. English is the primary language spoken in Brooklin.
🏛️ History
The town of Brooklin was incorporated on June 9, 1849. It was originally part of Sedgwick, a neighboring town, but separated due to the inconvenience of traveling the long distance to the town center. The town was named after the brooks that flow through the area. Brooklin has a rich maritime history and was once a hub for shipbuilding and fishing industries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Brooklin is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is home to the Wooden Boat School, which is located on the shores of Eggemoggin Reach. The area is rich in wildlife, with numerous bird species, deer, and other native animals. Brooklin also has several conservation areas and parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and bird watching.
🏫 Education
Education in Brooklin is managed by the Brooklin School Department. The town has one public school, Brooklin School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend George Stevens Academy in the nearby town of Blue Hill.
🚧 Transportation
Brooklin is accessible by road via Maine State Route 175, which runs through the town. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located about 25 miles northeast of Brooklin. For local transportation, residents rely on personal vehicles, as public transportation options are limited.
📜 Trivia & Events
Brooklin is known as the “Boat Building Capital of the World” due to its rich shipbuilding history. The town is home to several notable boat builders and marine publications. Brooklin also hosts the annual Sweet Chariot Music Festival, a popular event that draws musicians and visitors from around the world. The town was also the longtime home of renowned children’s book authors Robert McCloskey and E.B. White, author of “Charlotte’s Web”.