The Big List of Cities

Category: P

  • Paris, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Paris is a charming town situated in the state of Maine, United States. It is located in Oxford County and is enveloped by the scenic beauty of the Western Maine Mountains. The town covers a total area of 57.33 square miles, of which 56.59 square miles is land and 0.74 square miles is water. Paris is known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Paris, Maine are approximately 44.2592° N latitude and 70.5006° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Paris is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is the county seat of Oxford County, and it is nestled in the southwestern part of the state. The town is divided into several villages including Paris Hill, South Paris, and West Paris.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As per the 2010 Census, the population of Paris was 5,183. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant number of families and a median age of approximately 40 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with minorities making up a small percentage of the population.

    🏛️ History

    Paris was first settled in 1779 and was incorporated as a town in 1793. It was named after Paris, France, in honor of the French assistance during the American Revolution. The town’s historic district, Paris Hill, is home to several well-preserved 19th-century houses, including the Hamlin Memorial Library and Museum, which was once the home of Vice President Hannibal Hamlin.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Paris is surrounded by a variety of natural beauty, from the rolling hills and lush forests to the pristine lakes and rivers. The town is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Paris Hill Country Club and the Snow Falls Gorge. The Mt. Tire’m Waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural environment makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

    🏫 Education

    Paris is served by the Oxford Hills School District, which includes Paris Elementary School, Oxford Hills Middle School, and Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Bates College in Lewiston and Bowdoin College in Brunswick.

    🚧 Transportation

    Paris is easily accessible by road, with Route 26 and Route 117 running through the town. The closest major airport is the Portland International Jetport, which is about an hour’s drive from Paris. The town also has several local taxi services and bus routes for local transportation.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Paris is known for its annual Founders Day celebration, which includes a parade, fireworks, and various community events. The town is also home to the Paris Cape Historical Society, which hosts various events and exhibits throughout the year. In the winter, the town becomes a hub for snowmobiling, skiing, and other winter sports. The Paris Hill Country Club hosts an annual golf tournament that draws players from around the region.

  • Peaks Island, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Peaks Island is located in the state of Maine, within Cumberland County. It is the most populated island in Casco Bay and is part of the city of Portland. The island is approximately 2 miles long and 1 mile wide, covering an area of 720 acres.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Peaks Island are approximately 43.6572° N latitude and 70.1967° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Peaks Island is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is situated in Casco Bay, an inlet of the Gulf of Maine. The island is part of the city of Portland and is considered one of its neighborhoods. It covers a total area of approximately 2 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the last census, the population of Peaks Island was around 900 residents, although this number can triple during the summer months due to tourism. The island has a diverse population, with a mix of year-round residents and seasonal visitors. The majority of the population is Caucasian, with a median age of around 50 years.

    🏛️ History

    Peaks Island was originally inhabited by Native Americans, specifically the Abenaki tribe, before European settlers arrived. The island was used primarily for farming and fishing until the late 19th century when it began to develop as a popular summer resort. During World War II, Peaks Island was home to a military base and was an important part of the defense of Casco Bay. Today, the island is a vibrant community and a popular destination for tourists.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Peaks Island is known for its beautiful natural environment, with sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and wooded areas. The island is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Peaks Island Land Preserve. Wildlife is abundant on the island, with a variety of bird species, marine life, and small mammals.

    🏫 Education

    Education on Peaks Island is provided by the Portland Public School District. The island has one elementary school, Peaks Island Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade. For middle and high school, students travel by ferry to schools in Portland.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation to and from Peaks Island is primarily by ferry, with the Casco Bay Lines providing regular service to Portland. The island also has a network of roads, and many residents use bicycles or golf carts for local transportation. There is also a taxi service available on the island.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Peaks Island hosts several annual events, including the Peaks Island Road Race and the Peaks Fest, a community celebration with music, food, and arts and crafts. The island is also home to the Umbrella Cover Museum, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of umbrella covers.

  • Portland, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Portland is the most populous city in the state of Maine and the seat of Cumberland County. It is located on a peninsula extending into Casco Bay, which is part of the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean. The city is known for its historic Old Port district along Portland Harbor, at the mouth of the Fore River and part of Casco Bay.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The city of Portland, Maine, is located at approximately 43.6615° N latitude and 70.2553° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Portland is located in the southern part of Maine, in the New England region of the northeastern United States. The city covers a total area of about 52.6 square miles (136.2 square kilometers), of which 21.31 square miles (55.13 square kilometers) is land and 31.2 square miles (80.8 square kilometers) is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Portland has a population of approximately 66,215, making it the most populous city in Maine. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities. The median age of residents is around 36 years.

    🏛️ History

    Portland was originally inhabited by the Abenaki people, who called the area Machigonne. English settlers arrived in the 1620s, and the area was incorporated as a town in 1786, named for the English Isle of Portland. The city was the capital of Maine from 1820 to 1832. Portland’s economy has historically been based on its seaport, and it has also been a significant fishing and industrial center.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Portland is known for its picturesque scenery, with a mix of urban and natural environments. The city boasts numerous parks, including the Eastern Promenade, Deering Oaks Park, and the Portland Trails urban land trust network. Casco Bay and its islands provide opportunities for boating and beachgoing. The city is also committed to environmental sustainability, with initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase renewable energy use.

    🏫 Education

    The city is served by the Portland Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Portland is also home to the University of Southern Maine and the Maine College of Art, as well as several private colleges.

    🚧 Transportation

    Portland is served by the Portland International Jetport, the busiest airport in Maine. The city has a public transportation system operated by the Greater Portland Metro Bus. Interstate 295 runs through the city, and U.S. Route 1 passes through the eastern part of the city. The city also has ferry services to the islands of Casco Bay.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Portland is known for its vibrant arts scene and hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Portland Art Walk and the Maine International Film Festival. The city is also famous for its food and craft beer scene, with more restaurants and breweries per capita than most U.S. cities. Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine, is a popular attraction.

  • Pownal, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Pownal is a small town located in Cumberland County in the southern part of the state of Maine, United States. It is situated in a region characterized by rolling hills and a mix of forested and agricultural land. The town is bordered by the towns of Freeport to the east, Durham to the north, North Yarmouth to the south, and New Gloucester to the west.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates for Pownal are approximately 43.8925° N latitude and 70.1872° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Pownal is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. It covers a total area of about 24.7 square miles, of which 24.4 square miles is land and 0.3 square miles is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Pownal had a population of 1,474 residents. The town’s population is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races. The median age in Pownal is around 45 years, indicating a slightly older population compared to the national average.

    🏛️ History

    The town of Pownal was incorporated on March 3, 1808, and was named after former Massachusetts governor Thomas Pownall. The town was originally settled as part of North Yarmouth, but it was set off and incorporated as a separate town in 1808. Pownal has a rich history of farming and agriculture, which continues to influence its culture and economy today.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Pownal is home to Bradbury Mountain State Park, a popular destination for hiking, biking, and camping. The park, which is one of the oldest state parks in Maine, offers stunning views of Casco Bay and the surrounding countryside. The town is also crisscrossed by several brooks and small rivers, providing ample opportunities for fishing and nature walks.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Pownal is managed by the Regional School Unit 5 (RSU5), which also serves the towns of Freeport and Durham. The town is home to Pownal Elementary School, which serves students in grades K-5. Middle and high school students typically attend schools in the neighboring town of Freeport.

    🚧 Transportation

    Pownal is primarily a car-dependent town with most residents commuting by car. The town is served by a few state routes, including Route 9 and Route 125, which provide access to the surrounding towns and cities. The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located about 25 miles south of Pownal.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every year, Pownal hosts the Pownal Scarecrow Festival, a fun-filled event where residents display homemade scarecrows around the town. The event is a beloved tradition and a highlight of the fall season. Additionally, Pownal is known for its historical sites, including the Mallett Hall, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • Porter, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Porter is a charming town located in Oxford County, Maine, United States. The town is nestled in the southeastern part of the state, bordered by the towns of Parsonsfield to the south, Hiram to the north, and Brownfield to the east. The New Hampshire state line forms its western boundary. Porter is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, fertile farmland, and lush forests.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Porter, Maine are approximately 43.81° N latitude and 70.95° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Porter is part of the New England region, specifically within the state of Maine. The town covers a total area of approximately 29.78 square miles, of which 29.48 square miles is land and 0.30 square miles is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As per the 2010 census, the population of Porter was about 1,498. The town has a predominantly white demographic, with a mix of other races. The median age in Porter is around 45 years, which is slightly higher than the state average.

    🏛️ History

    Porter was incorporated as a town in 1807. It was named after Dr. Aaron Porter, a prominent local landowner and community leader. The town’s early economy was largely based on agriculture, with a focus on dairy and apple farming. Over the years, the town has maintained its rural character while adapting to the changing times.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Porter is blessed with a rich natural environment. It is home to several streams and ponds, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife. The town is also surrounded by a number of forests, making it a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and hunting. The Ossipee River, which forms part of the town’s eastern boundary, is a popular spot for fishing and boating.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Porter is managed by the Maine School Administrative District 55. The town is served by Sacopee Valley High School, located in the neighboring town of Hiram. There are also several private and public elementary and middle schools in the surrounding areas that serve the residents of Porter.

    🚧 Transportation

    Porter is served by a network of state and local roads, including State Route 25 and State Route 160, which provide connections to the surrounding towns and cities. The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located approximately 50 miles to the east. Local public transportation services are limited, reflecting the town’s rural character.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Porter is known for its annual Porter Field Day, a community event that features a parade, games, food, and other festivities. The town is also home to the historic Porter Covered Bridge, one of the few remaining covered bridges in Maine. The bridge, built in 1876, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.