Category: W

  • Waterford, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Waterford is a charming town located in Oxford County, Maine, United States. It is nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains and is surrounded by numerous lakes and ponds, including Bear Pond, Keoka Lake, and McWain Pond. The town is characterized by its hilly terrain and lush forests, offering a picturesque landscape that reflects the natural beauty of Maine.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Waterford, Maine are approximately 44.1789° N latitude and 70.7208° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Waterford is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It spans an area of approximately 43.54 square miles (112.97 km²), of which 41.94 square miles (108.62 km²) is land and 1.6 square miles (4.14 km²) is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Waterford has a population of approximately 1,500 residents. The town has a predominantly white demographic, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Waterford is around 45 years, indicating a mature population. The town has a balanced gender ratio, with slightly more females than males.

    🏛️ History

    Waterford was first settled in 1775 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1797. The town was named after Waterford, Ireland, the homeland of some of its early settlers. Throughout its history, Waterford has been a quiet, rural community with a focus on agriculture and outdoor recreation.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Waterford is known for its rich natural environment, with numerous lakes, ponds, and forests. The town is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, and various bird species. The Bear Mountain Preserve, a local nature reserve, offers hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its well-maintained parks and green spaces.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Waterford is managed by the Oxford Hills School District. The town has one elementary school, Waterford Memorial School, which serves students from kindergarten through grade 5. For middle and high school, students typically attend schools in the nearby towns of Oxford or Norway.

    🚧 Transportation

    Waterford is served by a network of state and local roads, including Route 35, Route 37, and Route 118. The closest major highway is Interstate 95, which is approximately 20 miles east of the town. The nearest airport is the Portland International Jetport, located about 50 miles southeast of Waterford.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every summer, Waterford hosts the Waterford World’s Fair, a traditional agricultural fair featuring livestock shows, tractor pulls, and local crafts. This event is a highlight of the community calendar and attracts visitors from all over the region. Waterford is also known for its historical buildings, including the Waterford Library and the North Waterford Congregational Church, both of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • Waterboro, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Waterboro is a charming town located in York County, Maine, United States. It is situated in the southern part of the state and is characterized by its diverse topography, which includes forests, hills, and lakes. The town is divided into three major areas: North Waterboro, East Waterboro, and Waterboro. The Little Ossipee River flows through the town, adding to its scenic beauty.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Waterboro, Maine, are approximately 43.6334° N latitude and 70.7117° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Waterboro is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of about 57.52 square miles (149.0 km2), of which 49.97 square miles (129.4 km2) is land and 7.55 square miles (19.6 km2) is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Waterboro had a population of approximately 7,693 residents. The town is predominantly Caucasian, with a small percentage of the population being of Hispanic, African American, Asian, and other ethnic backgrounds. The median age in Waterboro is around 38 years, and the town has a nearly equal distribution of males and females.

    🏛️ History

    Waterboro was first settled in 1778 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1787. It was originally part of Massachusetts before becoming part of Maine when it achieved statehood in 1820. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture and lumbering, but it has since evolved into a residential community with a mix of small businesses.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Waterboro is home to the Waterboro Barrens Preserve, a 2,140-acre nature preserve that features the state’s largest pitch pine and scrub oak barren. The town is also known for its numerous lakes, including Lake Sherburne, Little Ossipee Lake, and Lake Arrowhead. These natural features provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Waterboro is managed by the Regional School Unit 57, which also serves the neighboring towns of Alfred, Limerick, Lyman, Newfield, and Shapleigh. Waterboro is home to Massabesic High School, Massabesic Middle School, and Waterboro Elementary School.

    🚧 Transportation

    The primary mode of transportation in Waterboro is by car, with U.S. Route 202 running through the town. The nearest airport is the Portland International Jetport, located approximately 30 miles northeast of Waterboro.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Waterboro is known for its annual Old Home Days celebration, a community event that includes a parade, fireworks, and various family-friendly activities. The town is also home to the 18th-century Elder Grey Meeting House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • Windham, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Windham is a town located in Cumberland County, Maine, United States. It is situated in the southern part of the state, approximately 12 miles northwest of Portland, the state’s largest city. The town is spread across a total area of 50.15 square miles, of which 46.56 square miles is land and 3.59 square miles is water. Windham is characterized by a variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and several bodies of water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Windham, Maine are approximately 43.8° N latitude and 70.4° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Windham is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town is divided into several villages, including North Windham, Windham Center, South Windham, and East Windham. The town is surrounded by several other towns such as Raymond, Gray, Gorham, Standish, and Falmouth. The ZIP codes for Windham are 04062 and 04082.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Windham was estimated to be around 17,816 in 2019. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 40.8 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of the population being African American, Asian, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    Windham was incorporated in 1762 and was originally known as New Marblehead. During the Revolutionary War, the town was a center of military activity due to its strategic location. In the 19th century, Windham became a hub for agriculture, lumbering, and manufacturing. The town has preserved several historic landmarks, reflecting its rich history.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Windham is home to several parks, trails, and bodies of water. The town is located near Sebago Lake, one of the largest lakes in Maine. The Presumpscot River also flows through the town, offering opportunities for fishing and boating. The town has a commitment to preserving its natural resources and maintains several conservation areas.

    🏫 Education

    Windham is served by the Regional School Unit 14 (RSU 14), which includes Windham Primary School, Windham Middle School, and Windham High School. The town also has several private schools. For higher education, the nearest institutions are the University of Southern Maine and Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.

    🚧 Transportation

    Windham is accessible by U.S. Route 302 and State Route 115. The town is also served by the Greater Portland Transit District METRO bus service, which provides public transportation to Portland and other nearby towns. The nearest airport is the Portland International Jetport, located about 15 miles southeast of Windham.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Windham is known for hosting the Sebago Lake Rotary Ice Fishing Derby, a popular event that attracts anglers from all over the region. The town also hosts an annual Summerfest, a community celebration with music, food, and fireworks. One of the interesting facts about Windham is that it was the birthplace of famous poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s mother, Zilpah Wadsworth.

  • Wonalancet, New Hampshire

    📍 Location & Geography

    Wonalancet is a small, unincorporated community located in the state of New Hampshire, United States. It’s situated in the scenic Carroll County, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and charming small towns. Wonalancet is nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, a range that extends across the northeastern part of the state.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Wonalancet are approximately 43.95 degrees North latitude and 71.32 degrees West longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Wonalancet is part of the New England region of the United States, which is known for its rich history and distinct seasons. The community is located in the eastern part of Carroll County, which covers an area of about 931 square miles. As an unincorporated community, Wonalancet doesn’t have defined boundaries, but it’s generally considered to be part of the larger town of Tamworth.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    Being an unincorporated community, Wonalancet doesn’t have its own population count. However, the larger town of Tamworth, which Wonalancet is part of, has a population of approximately 2,856 people as per the 2020 census. The demographics of Tamworth, and likely Wonalancet, are predominantly white, with small percentages of other races.

    🏛️ History

    Wonalancet is named after a 17th-century Pennacook sachem, or tribal leader, who was friendly with the English settlers. The community has a rich history tied to the White Mountains and the region’s logging industry. Wonalancet was also home to the Wonalancet Out Door Club, which played a significant role in the early conservation efforts in the White Mountains during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Wonalancet is surrounded by the natural beauty of the White Mountains. This includes the Sandwich Range, a subrange of the White Mountains, which is popular among hikers. The community is also close to the Wonalancet River and several smaller brooks. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including moose, black bears, and a variety of bird species.

    🏫 Education

    Education services in Wonalancet are provided by the Tamworth School District, which operates an elementary school and a middle school. High school students typically attend Kennett High School in Conway. There are also several private schools and colleges within driving distance.

    🚧 Transportation

    Wonalancet is accessible by road, with New Hampshire Route 113A passing through the community. The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, which is about two hours away by car. Local transportation services include bus lines and taxis.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Wonalancet is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The community is also close to the Sandwich Range Wilderness, a protected area that’s popular among backpackers. Each year, the larger town of Tamworth hosts several events, including a farmers market and a summer theater festival, which residents of Wonalancet often participate in.

  • Wolfeboro Falls, New Hampshire

    📍 Location & Geography

    Wolfeboro Falls is a village located within the town of Wolfeboro in Carroll County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, nestled in the Lakes Region. The village is located near Lake Wentworth and Crescent Lake, providing a picturesque and serene environment.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Wolfeboro Falls, New Hampshire are approximately 43.5919° N latitude and 71.2050° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Wolfeboro Falls is part of the Lakes Region in New Hampshire, an area known for its beautiful lakes and mountains. The village itself is relatively small, covering a modest area within the larger town of Wolfeboro.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As Wolfeboro Falls is a village within the town of Wolfeboro, it does not have its own separate population count. However, the town of Wolfeboro, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, had a population of approximately 6,269 as of 2010. The demographic makeup is largely Caucasian, with a small percentage of other races.

    🏛️ History

    Wolfeboro Falls’ history is intertwined with that of the town of Wolfeboro, which was granted by Governor Benning Wentworth in 1759 to four men of Portsmouth. Named after General James Wolfe, the town became incorporated in 1770. The village of Wolfeboro Falls developed around the waterfalls where the Smith River feeds into Lake Wentworth, which was once a hub of water-powered industries.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Wolfeboro Falls is surrounded by natural beauty, with Lake Wentworth and Crescent Lake nearby. The area is home to a variety of wildlife and offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. The village is also close to the White Mountains, providing stunning views and additional recreational opportunities.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Wolfeboro Falls is served by the Governor Wentworth Regional School District, which includes Carpenter Elementary School, Crescent Lake School, Kingswood Regional Middle School, and Kingswood Regional High School. There are also private education options available in the town of Wolfeboro.

    🚧 Transportation

    Wolfeboro Falls is accessible by road, with New Hampshire Route 28 passing through the village. The closest major airports are Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and Portland International Jetport, both of which are approximately two hours away by car. Local transportation includes taxi services and limited public transportation options.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Wolfeboro, the town in which Wolfeboro Falls is located, is known as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America”, a title it has held since the 18th century when Governor John Wentworth established a summer home there. The village itself is known for its picturesque waterfalls and historic mill site. The Wolfeboro Falls Mill Pond and Dam, a popular local attraction, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The town of Wolfeboro hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the annual Wolfeboro Vintage Race Boat Regatta.