📍 Location & Geography
New Sharon is a town located in Franklin County, in the state of Maine, United States. The town is situated in the western part of the state, approximately 30 miles northwest of Augusta, the state capital. New Sharon is spread over a total area of 48.07 square miles, of which 47.79 square miles is land and 0.28 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of New Sharon, Maine are approximately 44.64 degrees north latitude and 70.01 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
New Sharon is part of the New England region of the United States. It falls within the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys tourism region of Maine. The town is surrounded by several other towns including Farmington to the west, Industry to the north, and Vienna and Mount Vernon to the south.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of New Sharon was 1,407. The town’s population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in New Sharon is around 43 years, which is slightly higher than the state average.
🏛️ History
New Sharon was first settled in 1778 and was incorporated as a town on February 25, 1794. The town was initially a farming community, with several mills established along the Sandy River which runs through the town. Over the years, New Sharon has maintained its rural character while also developing into a residential community.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
New Sharon is known for its natural beauty, with a landscape that includes forests, hills, and water bodies. The Sandy River, a tributary of the Kennebec River, flows through the town, providing opportunities for fishing and boating. The town also has several parks and green spaces, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy outdoor activities.
🏫 Education
Education in New Sharon is managed by the Regional School Unit 9, which serves several towns in Franklin County. The town has an elementary school, New Sharon Elementary School. For middle and high school, students typically attend schools in the nearby town of Farmington.
🚧 Transportation
New Sharon is served by U.S. Route 2 and State Route 134, which provide connections to other parts of Maine. The nearest major airport is Augusta State Airport, located about 30 miles southeast of the town.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, New Sharon hosts a variety of community events, including the New Sharon Day, a celebration featuring a parade, games, food, and music. The town is also home to the New Sharon Congregational Church, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.