📍 Location & Geography
Jefferson is a small town located in Lincoln County, Maine, United States. The town is situated in the mid-coast region of Maine and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The town is bordered by the towns of Whitefield to the west, Windsor to the north, Somerville to the northeast, Washington to the east, and Waldoboro to the south. The town’s geography is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and numerous bodies of water including Damariscotta Lake, which is one of the largest lakes in the state.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Jefferson, Maine are approximately 44.2153° N latitude and 69.5128° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Jefferson is part of the New England region of the United States, specifically located in the mid-coast area of the state of Maine. The town covers a total area of approximately 58.33 square miles (151.07 km²), of which about 51.56 square miles (133.54 km²) is land and 6.77 square miles (17.53 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the United States Census Bureau, the population of Jefferson was estimated to be around 2,427 in 2010. The town has a diverse age range, with a slightly higher proportion of residents aged 45 and above. The gender distribution is nearly equal, with a slight male majority.
🏛️ History
Jefferson was first settled in the 1770s and was originally part of a larger tract of land known as Ballstown. The town was officially incorporated on February 24, 1807, and was named in honor of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. The town’s early economy was based on farming, lumbering, and ice harvesting from Damariscotta Lake.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Jefferson is known for its beautiful natural environment, with numerous lakes, ponds, and forests. The town is home to the Hidden Valley Nature Center, a 1,000-acre reserve that offers hiking, cross-country skiing, and educational programs. The town is also part of the Medomak River watershed, an important habitat for Atlantic salmon.
🏫 Education
Jefferson is part of the Central Lincoln County School System (AOS 93). The town has one elementary school, Jefferson Village School, which serves students from kindergarten to eighth grade. High school students typically attend Lincoln Academy in the nearby town of Newcastle.
🚧 Transportation
Jefferson is primarily a car-dependent town with most residents relying on personal vehicles for transportation. The town is served by state routes 32 and 213, which provide connections to nearby towns and cities. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located about 60 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Jefferson is home to the annual Damariscotta Lake Watershed Association Paddle, a popular canoe and kayak event held on Damariscotta Lake. The town also hosts the Jefferson Day Festival, a community event featuring local food, music, and crafts. Jefferson is also known for its historical sites, including the Old Jefferson Town House, which was built in 1796 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.