📍 Location & Geography
Orono is a charming town located in Penobscot County, Maine, United States. It is nestled along the banks of the Penobscot River and Stillwater River. The town covers a total area of 19.60 square miles, of which 18.19 square miles is land and 1.41 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Orono, Maine, are approximately 44.8831° N latitude and 68.6726° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Orono is part of the Bangor Metropolitan Statistical Area in the northeastern United States. It is located in the central part of Maine, about 137 miles north of Portland, the state’s largest city. The town is surrounded by a mix of forests, rivers, and farmland, providing a picturesque New England setting.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Orono has a population of approximately 10,362 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant number of young adults due to the presence of the University of Maine. The median age is about 21.7 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Orono was first settled in the late 1770s. It was incorporated as a town on March 12, 1806, and named after Joseph Orono, a chief of the Penobscot Nation. The town’s early economy was based on farming, lumbering, and shipbuilding. The establishment of the University of Maine in 1865 greatly influenced the town’s development and continues to play a significant role in its economy and culture.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Orono is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Orono Bog Boardwalk, a 1-mile trail through a peat bog. The Penobscot River provides opportunities for boating and fishing, and the surrounding forests are perfect for hiking and bird watching. The town is committed to preserving its natural resources and has several conservation initiatives in place.
🏫 Education
Education in Orono is highly regarded, with the town being home to the University of Maine, the state’s largest university. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research in areas such as marine sciences, engineering, and forestry. The town also has a well-rated public school system, including Orono High School, Orono Middle School, and Asa C. Adams Elementary School.
🚧 Transportation
Orono is served by several major roads, including Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 2. The town is also accessible by bus, with service provided by the Community Connector. The nearest airport is Bangor International Airport, located about 12 miles south of Orono. The town also has several miles of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to get around on foot or by bicycle.
📜 Trivia & Events
Orono is known for its vibrant community events. One of the most popular is the annual Orono Festival Day, a community celebration featuring a parade, live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. The University of Maine also hosts numerous cultural and sporting events throughout the year. Additionally, Orono is the birthplace of Stephen King, the famous author known for his horror and suspense novels.