📍 Location & Geography
Deer Isle is a picturesque town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It occupies a total area of 123.67 square miles, of which 29.92 square miles is land and 93.75 square miles is water. The town is comprised of several islands, including the main Deer Isle and Little Deer Isle, which are connected to the mainland by a suspension bridge.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Deer Isle, Maine are approximately 44.2236° N latitude and 68.6770° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Deer Isle is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is situated in the eastern part of Hancock County. The town is surrounded by the waters of Penobscot Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, and it is known for its rugged coastline and scenic beauty.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Deer Isle had a population of around 1,975 residents. The population density is relatively low due to the town’s large area. The town’s population is predominantly white, with a median age of about 53 years, which is higher than the national average.
🏛️ History
Deer Isle was first settled by Europeans in the 1760s. It was incorporated as a town in 1789. The town has a rich maritime history, with shipbuilding and fishing being the primary industries in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Granite quarrying also played a significant role in the town’s economy. Today, Deer Isle is known for its vibrant arts scene and its lobster fishing industry.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Deer Isle is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The town is home to numerous parks and nature preserves, including the Edgar M. Tennis Preserve and the Barred Island Preserve. The island’s diverse ecosystems include forests, wetlands, and rocky shorelines. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to see deer, foxes, and a wide variety of bird species.
🏫 Education
Education in Deer Isle is managed by the Deer Isle-Stonington School District. The district operates an elementary school and Deer Isle-Stonington High School. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities within a reasonable driving distance, including the University of Maine.
🚧 Transportation
Access to Deer Isle is primarily via State Route 15, which connects the island to the mainland via the Deer Isle Bridge. The town does not have its own public transportation system, but there is a regional bus service that serves the wider area. The nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport, about 60 miles to the north.
📜 Trivia & Events
Deer Isle is famous for its annual Lobster Boat Races, a tradition that celebrates the town’s maritime heritage. The town is also home to Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, an internationally renowned arts school. Notably, Deer Isle was the source of the granite used to construct the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame memorial in Arlington National Cemetery.