📍 Location & Geography
Corea is a small coastal village located in the northeastern part of the United States, in the state of Maine. It is situated in Hancock County, on the eastern edge of the Schoodic Peninsula. The village is bordered by the Gulf of Maine to the east and south, providing picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. The terrain is characterized by rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and dense forests.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Corea, Maine are approximately 44.4094° N latitude and 68.0142° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Corea is part of the Downeast region of Maine, known for its rugged beauty and quaint coastal villages. Despite its small size, Corea is part of the larger Gouldsboro town, which spans an area of 98.33 square miles, including 34.32 square miles of land and 64.01 square miles of water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As a small village within the town of Gouldsboro, Corea does not have a separate population count. However, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town of Gouldsboro, which includes Corea, had a population of approximately 1,737 as of 2010. The population is predominantly White, with a median age of around 50 years.
🏛️ History
Corea was originally inhabited by the Passamaquoddy Native American tribe. European settlers arrived in the 18th century, primarily engaging in fishing and lobstering, which remain significant industries today. The village was named after the Korean peninsula, “Corea,” in the late 19th century, a name believed to have been chosen by local postmaster Lorenzo Moore.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Corea is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and numerous harbors and inlets, providing habitats for a variety of marine wildlife. The nearby Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge is home to diverse bird species, including puffins and terns. The region’s dense forests are also home to a variety of fauna, including deer and foxes.
🏫 Education
Educational services in Corea are provided by the Regional School Unit 24 (RSU 24), which serves several towns in Hancock County. The nearest schools are Peninsula School in Prospect Harbor and Sumner Memorial High School in Sullivan. Higher education opportunities are available in nearby cities such as Ellsworth and Bangor.
🚧 Transportation
The primary mode of transportation in Corea is by road, with Maine State Route 195 passing through the village. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located approximately 30 miles southwest of Corea. The village’s coastal location also allows for maritime transport, with several harbors and marinas in the vicinity.
📜 Trivia & Events
Corea is known for its lobster fishing industry and is home to a working harbor where visitors can see lobster boats in action. The village was also the filming location for the 1999 movie “Snow Falling on Cedars.” Each year, the wider Gouldsboro area hosts several events, including the Winter Harbor Lobster Festival and the Schoodic Arts Festival.