📍 Location & Geography
Frenchboro is a small town situated in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is located on Long Island, one of the many islands that dot the Maine coast. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, providing it with a maritime climate. The island is mostly forested, with a small village center and harbor.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Frenchboro are 44°15′47″N latitude and 68°20′44″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Frenchboro is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of 12.47 square miles, of which 2.24 square miles is land and 10.23 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the United States Census Bureau, as of 2010, Frenchboro had a population of 61 people. The town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Frenchboro is 53.4 years.
🏛️ History
Frenchboro was first settled in the 1760s by fishermen and farmers. The town was incorporated in 1857 and named after John French, one of the early settlers. The town’s economy was traditionally based on fishing, farming, and boat building. Over the years, the population has fluctuated, with many residents moving away due to the harsh living conditions and limited job opportunities.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Frenchboro is known for its rugged beauty and rich biodiversity. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life such as lobsters, clams, and various fish species. The town is also home to the Frenchboro Preserve, a large nature reserve managed by the Maine Coast Heritage Trust.
🏫 Education
Education in Frenchboro is managed by the Frenchboro School Department. The town has one school, Frenchboro Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. For high school, students typically attend schools on the mainland.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation to and from Frenchboro is primarily by ferry, with service provided by the Maine State Ferry Service from Bass Harbor. The town also has a small airstrip, the Frenchboro Airport, for small aircraft. Within the island, transportation is mainly by foot, bicycle, or personal vehicle.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Frenchboro hosts the Lobster Festival in August, a popular event that attracts visitors from around the region. The festival features a lobster dinner, local crafts, a road race, and various other activities. The town is also known for its historic lighthouse, which was built in 1857 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.