📍 Location & Geography
Machias is a small town located in Washington County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is situated along the Machias River, which is approximately 20 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. The town covers a total area of 14.53 square miles, of which 13.86 square miles is land and 0.67 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Machias are 44°42′38″N latitude and 67°27′36″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Machias is part of the Downeast region of Maine, an area known for its rugged coastline and maritime history. The town is the county seat of Washington County, the easternmost county in the United States. It’s surrounded by several small towns and unincorporated areas.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Machias was approximately 2,221. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 36.5 years. The population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races.
🏛️ History
Machias was first settled by English colonists in 1633. The town’s name, which means “bad little falls,” was derived from the river that runs through it. The town played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War when local settlers captured a British naval schooner in what is known as the Battle of Machias. It was officially incorporated as a town in 1826.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Machias is known for its scenic beauty, with the Machias River and the Atlantic Ocean providing stunning waterfront views. The town is surrounded by dense forests and is home to the Roque Bluffs State Park, which offers trails, a sandy beach, and picnic areas. The area is also rich in wildlife, with opportunities for bird watching and spotting other local fauna.
🏫 Education
Education in Machias is served by the Machias School Department, which includes Rose M. Gaffney Elementary School and Machias Memorial High School. The town is also home to the University of Maine at Machias, a public liberal arts university that offers a range of undergraduate programs.
🚧 Transportation
The primary mode of transportation in Machias is by car, with U.S. Route 1 passing through the town. The town is also served by the Machias Valley Airport, a public airport located two miles southwest of the central business district. Public transportation is provided by the West Bus Service, which offers routes to surrounding towns and cities.
📜 Trivia & Events
Machias is famous for its annual Blueberry Festival, which celebrates the region’s blueberry crop with a fun-filled weekend of food, arts and crafts, music, and a parade. The town is also known for its historical significance, with several structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Burnham Tavern, which served as a meeting place during the Revolutionary War.