📍 Location & Geography
Cushing is a charming town located in Knox County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the western side of the Penobscot Bay and is bordered by the towns of Friendship to the south, Warren to the north, and St. George to the east. The town covers a total area of 38.64 square miles, of which 24.27 square miles is land and 14.37 square miles is water. Cushing features a coastline with numerous inlets, coves, and islands.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Cushing are approximately 43°58′N 69°18′W. It lies in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).
🗺️ Region & Area
Cushing is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is nestled in the Mid Coast area of Maine, which is known for its picturesque coastal scenery and maritime history. The town’s ZIP code is 04563.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the United States Census Bureau, as of 2010, Cushing had a population of 1,534. The town’s population is primarily composed of White residents, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Cushing is around 48 years, which is higher than the national average.
🏛️ History
Cushing was first settled in the 1730s and was originally part of a larger town known as St. Georges. It was officially incorporated as a separate town in 1789, and it was named in honor of Thomas Cushing, a prominent Massachusetts statesman. The town’s economy was traditionally based on shipbuilding, fishing, and farming, and it has a rich maritime history.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Cushing is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The town is home to several nature preserves and parks, including the Langlais Sculpture Preserve and the Salt Pond Preserve. The area is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot species such as bald eagles, ospreys, and various waterfowl.
🏫 Education
Education in Cushing is served by the Regional School Unit (RSU) 13, which includes Cushing Community School for grades K-8. High school students typically attend Oceanside High School in neighboring Rockland. For continuing and higher education, residents have access to nearby institutions such as the University of Maine at Rockland.
🚧 Transportation
Cushing is accessible by Maine State Route 97, which runs through the town. The nearest airport is Knox County Regional Airport, located approximately 12 miles north in Owls Head. For maritime transportation, there are several harbors and marinas in the surrounding area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Cushing is famously the location of the Olson House, which was featured in several works by renowned American painter Andrew Wyeth, most notably his 1948 painting “Christina’s World.” The house is now a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as part of the Farnsworth Art Museum. Each year, the town also hosts the Cushing Lobster Roll 5K, a popular event that combines a scenic run with the enjoyment of Maine’s famous lobster rolls.