📍 Location & Geography
Orrington is a picturesque town located in Penobscot County, in the state of Maine, United States. The town is situated along the eastern bank of the Penobscot River and is approximately 8 miles south of Bangor, one of the major cities in the state. Orrington covers a total area of 27.68 square miles, of which 26.11 square miles is land and 1.57 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Orrington, Maine are approximately 44.73 degrees North latitude and 68.81 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Orrington is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is situated in the southern part of Penobscot County. The town is divided into several areas including East Orrington, Orrington Corner, Brewer Lake, and Wiswell, each with its own unique charm.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Orrington had a population of approximately 3,733 people. The town has a predominantly white population, with minorities making up a small percentage of the total population. The median age in Orrington is around 44 years, slightly higher than the national average. The town is known for its friendly and welcoming community.
🏛️ History
Orrington was first settled in 1778 and was incorporated as a town on March 21, 1788. The town was originally named “New Worcester” but was later renamed Orrington, which is believed to be a misspelling of “Orangetown”. The town’s early economy was largely based on agriculture, lumbering, and shipbuilding, with the Penobscot River playing a significant role in its development.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Orrington is blessed with abundant natural beauty. The town is home to Fields Pond Audubon Center, a nature center and wildlife sanctuary that offers hiking trails and bird watching opportunities. Brewer Lake, a popular spot for boating and fishing, is also located in Orrington. The town’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic waterways, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
🏫 Education
Education in Orrington is managed by the Orrington School Department. The town has one elementary school, the Center Drive School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Brewer High School or John Bapst Memorial High School in nearby Bangor.
🚧 Transportation
Orrington is primarily a car-dependent town, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for transportation. The town is served by several state routes, including Route 15 and Route 166, which provide access to nearby cities and towns. The nearest airport is Bangor International Airport, located approximately 12 miles north of Orrington.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Orrington hosts the Old Home Week, a week-long celebration featuring a variety of events such as parades, concerts, and fireworks. The town is also known for Curran Homestead Living History Farm and Museum, a 19th-century living history museum that offers a glimpse into the rural life of the past. Orrington is also home to the King’s Mountain Disc Golf, one of the top-rated disc golf courses in Maine.