Category: S

  • Sabattus, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Sabattus is a charming town located in Androscoggin County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is situated in the southern part of the county and is part of the Lewiston-Auburn Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and a number of lakes and ponds, including Sabattus Pond, which is the largest body of water in the town.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Sabattus, Maine, are approximately 44.15° N latitude and 70.10° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Sabattus is located in the New England region of the northeastern United States. It covers a total area of 26.97 square miles, of which 25.79 square miles is land and 1.18 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 Census, the population of Sabattus was approximately 4,876. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 43 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    Sabattus was originally part of a larger tract of land granted by the Massachusetts General Court in 1768 to Jonathan Eddy of Eddington. The town was first settled in 1774 and was originally named Webster, after an early settler. In 1971, the town was renamed Sabattus, in honor of a local Anasagunticook Indian Chief. Sabattus was officially incorporated as a town in 1840.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Sabattus is known for its natural beauty, with many opportunities for outdoor activities. Sabattus Pond is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and bird-watching. The town is also home to the Sabattus River, which offers beautiful views and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. The town’s forests are rich in wildlife and provide excellent opportunities for hiking and hunting.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Sabattus is managed by the Regional School Unit 4, which also serves the towns of Litchfield and Wales. The town has one elementary school, Sabattus Primary School, and students attend middle and high school in the neighboring towns.

    🚧 Transportation

    Sabattus is served by U.S. Route 202 and State Route 126, which provide access to nearby cities like Lewiston and Augusta. The town is approximately 35 miles from Portland International Jetport, the closest major airport. Local transportation services are provided by the Western Maine Transportation Services.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every year, Sabattus hosts the Annual Ice Fishing Derby on Sabattus Pond, attracting anglers from all over the region. The town is also home to the Sabattus Disc Golf, one of the largest disc golf courses in the Northeast. Additionally, Sabattus was the hometown of Ralph Botting, a former Major League Baseball player.

  • Stoneham, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Stoneham is a charming town located in Oxford County, in the state of Maine. It is nestled in the western part of the state, near the New Hampshire border. The town is characterized by its hilly terrain, dotted with several lakes and ponds, including Virginia Lake, Overset Pond, and Keewaydin Lake. The town is surrounded by abundant forests, making it a haven for nature lovers.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Stoneham are approximately 44.3 degrees North latitude and 70.8 degrees West longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Stoneham is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It covers a total area of approximately 45.9 square miles (118.9 km²), of which 44.9 square miles (116.3 km²) is land and 1.0 square mile (2.6 km²) is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Stoneham had a population of approximately 236 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a median age of around 50 years. The population density is relatively low, with around 5 people per square mile.

    🏛️ History

    Stoneham was incorporated as a town in 1834. The town was named after Stoneham, Massachusetts by settlers who migrated from there. The local economy was historically based on agriculture, with the rich, fertile soil providing ample opportunities for farming. As the town developed, it also became a popular destination for tourists, especially those interested in outdoor activities and nature exploration.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Stoneham is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is home to several lakes and ponds, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The surrounding forests are full of hiking trails and wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The town is also located near the White Mountain National Forest, offering even more outdoor recreational opportunities.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Stoneham is managed by the Maine School Administrative District 72, which also serves several other towns in the region. Although there are no schools within the town’s boundaries, students from Stoneham attend schools in nearby towns, including New Suncook School, Molly Ockett Middle School, and Fryeburg Academy.

    🚧 Transportation

    The primary mode of transportation in Stoneham is by road. The town is served by Maine State Route 5, which provides access to nearby towns and cities. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located about 70 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every year, Stoneham hosts a variety of community events, including an annual summer fair and a winter festival. The town is also known for its historical landmarks, including several 19th-century farmhouses and the Stoneham Congregational Church, which was built in 1841.

  • South Portland, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    South Portland is a city located in Cumberland County, in the southern part of the state of Maine, United States. It is situated on the southern side of the Fore River, which separates it from Portland, the largest city in Maine. South Portland covers an area of 14.02 square miles, of which 12.13 square miles is land and 1.89 square miles is water. The city has a diverse geography, featuring coastal areas, residential districts, and commercial spaces.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of South Portland are approximately 43.6415° N latitude and 70.2411° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    South Portland is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan area, the largest metropolitan area in Maine. The city is divided into several neighborhoods, including Ferry Village, Knightville, Mill Creek, and Willard, each with its unique character and charm.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As per the U.S. Census Bureau’s data from 2019, South Portland has a population of approximately 25,606. The city’s population is predominantly White, with significant representation from other ethnic groups including African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics. The median age in South Portland is around 40 years, slightly higher than the national average.

    🏛️ History

    South Portland was first settled in 1630, and it was part of the larger town of Cape Elizabeth until 1895 when it was incorporated as a town. It became a city in 1898. South Portland played a significant role during World War II as the home of a large shipyard that produced Liberty Ships for the U.S. Maritime Commission. The city has since evolved into a bustling residential and commercial hub.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    South Portland is known for its beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city boasts several parks and green spaces, including the South Portland Greenbelt walkway, a trail that stretches across the city. Bug Light Park, with its historic lighthouse, offers panoramic views of the Portland Harbor and skyline. The city is also committed to environmental sustainability, with numerous initiatives aimed at conservation and reducing carbon emissions.

    🏫 Education

    South Portland is served by the South Portland School Department, which operates five elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. The city is also home to Southern Maine Community College, the largest community college in Maine, offering a variety of degree and certificate programs.

    🚧 Transportation

    South Portland is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The Portland International Jetport, Maine’s busiest airport, is located within the city limits. South Portland also has an extensive bus service operated by the South Portland Bus Service and the Greater Portland Metro Bus. The city is also conveniently located near Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1, providing easy access to other parts of the state and beyond.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    South Portland hosts several annual events, including the Art in the Park Show & Sale and the South Portland Winterfest. An interesting fact about the city is that it is home to the world’s second-largest oil port, the Portland-Montreal Pipe Line. The city is also known for the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, a popular tourist attraction.

  • Steep Falls, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Steep Falls is a charming village located in the town of Standish, in Cumberland County, Maine, United States. It is nestled in the southwestern part of the state, near the New Hampshire border. The village is named after a waterfall on the Saco River, which flows through the area, adding to its picturesque landscape.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Steep Falls are approximately 43.8° North latitude and 70.7° West longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Steep Falls is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan area, which is the most populous metropolitan area in Maine. The village itself has a land area of around 1.2 square miles, with a mix of residential, commercial, and natural spaces.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As Steep Falls is a village within the town of Standish, it does not have its own separate population count. However, the town of Standish as a whole has a population of approximately 10,000 residents. The demographic makeup is predominantly Caucasian, with a small percentage of other ethnicities.

    🏛️ History

    Steep Falls was originally part of a land grant given by the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1735. The area was first settled in 1750 and was incorporated as part of Standish in 1785. The village grew around the falls, which provided power for various mills during the 19th century. Over time, Steep Falls has maintained its small-town charm while adapting to modern developments.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Steep Falls is known for its natural beauty. The Saco River and the falls for which the village is named are key features of the landscape. The Steep Falls Wildlife Management Area is also a significant natural attraction, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and observing local wildlife. The area experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Steep Falls is managed by the School Administrative District 6, which serves several towns in the area. The district offers elementary, middle, and high school education. For higher education, residents often commute to nearby cities like Portland, which hosts several colleges and universities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Steep Falls is accessible by road, with Maine State Route 113 passing directly through the village. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located approximately 25 miles away. Locally, the area is served by a network of local roads, and many residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every year, Steep Falls hosts the popular “Steep Falls Village Apple Festival” in the fall. This event celebrates the local apple harvest and includes activities like apple picking, cider pressing, and a variety of food and craft vendors. The village is also known for its historical architecture, with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • Standish, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Standish is a charming town located in Cumberland County, Maine, United States. It is nestled in the southern part of the state, approximately 20 miles west of Portland, Maine’s largest city. The town is characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous bodies of water, including Sebago Lake, the second-largest lake in Maine, and the Saco River. The town covers a total area of approximately 80 square miles, of which about 73 square miles is land and 7 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Standish are approximately 43.7358° N latitude and 70.5523° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Standish is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town is divided into several villages, including Standish Corner, Sebago Lake Village, and Steep Falls. The ZIP codes for Standish are 04075 and 04084.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Standish had a population of approximately 10,139 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant number of families and young professionals. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly white, with minorities making up a small portion of the population.

    🏛️ History

    Standish was first settled in 1750 and incorporated in 1785. The town was named in honor of Captain Myles Standish, an English military officer hired by the Pilgrims for their journey to the New World on the Mayflower. Standish saw significant growth in the 19th and 20th centuries due to its location along the Saco River and its proximity to Portland.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Standish is known for its picturesque natural environment. The town is home to Sebago Lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The Saco River also provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. Standish has several parks and recreational areas, including the Standish Neck Bird Sanctuary and the Sebago to the Sea Trail, a 28-mile trail that connects Sebago Lake to the Atlantic Ocean.

    🏫 Education

    Standish is served by the School Administrative District 6, which includes Bonny Eagle High School, Bonny Eagle Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also home to Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, a private Catholic liberal arts college.

    🚧 Transportation

    Standish is accessible by U.S. Route 25 and State Route 35, which connect the town to Portland and other nearby cities. The town is also served by the Regional Transportation Program, a nonprofit transportation service that provides rides for seniors, people with disabilities, and the general public.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Standish is known for its annual Summer Spectacular, a community event that includes a parade, fireworks, and various family-friendly activities. The town also hosts the Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival, a popular summer concert series. In a nod to its history, Standish is home to the Standish Historical Society, which operates the Marrett House, a historic home that offers tours and educational programs.