📍 Location & Geography
Franklin is a town located in Hancock County in the state of Maine, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the country. The town is surrounded by a variety of landscapes, including forests, mountains, and water bodies. It is bordered by the towns of Eastbrook and Waltham to the north, Sullivan to the east, and Hancock to the south. The town is known for its picturesque scenery, with the Taunton Bay to the east and the Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land to the west.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Franklin, Maine are approximately 44.58 degrees north latitude and 68.23 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Franklin is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located in the eastern part of Hancock County. The town covers a total area of 41.18 square miles (106.66 km²), of which 36.80 square miles (95.31 km²) is land and 4.38 square miles (11.34 km²) is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Franklin was 1,483. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.2 years. The population is predominantly Caucasian, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Franklin was first settled in the late 18th century and was incorporated as a town in 1825. It was named after Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. The town’s history is deeply rooted in blueberry farming and granite quarrying, which were major economic activities in the past.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Franklin is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The town is home to the Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, which offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The Taunton Bay, located to the east of the town, is a tidal estuary that supports a diverse range of wildlife and is a popular spot for kayaking and bird-watching.
🏫 Education
Education in Franklin is administered by the RSU 24 school district. The town is served by the Mountain View School, which provides education for students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Sumner Memorial High School in the nearby town of Sullivan.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Franklin is primarily by road, with State Route 182 running through the town. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located approximately 15 miles south of the town. There is no public transportation system in Franklin, so residents typically rely on personal vehicles for transportation.
📜 Trivia & Events
Franklin is known for its annual Blueberry Harvest Festival, which celebrates the town’s history of blueberry farming. The festival features a blueberry pancake breakfast, a blueberry pie eating contest, and other family-friendly activities. The town is also home to the Franklin Veterans Club, which hosts a variety of community events throughout the year.