📍 Location & Geography
Patten is a small town located in Penobscot County, in the state of Maine, United States. The town is nestled in the eastern part of the state, bordered by the townships of Hersey to the north, Crystal to the east, Stacyville to the south, and Moro Plantation to the west. Patten’s terrain is a mix of flatlands and rolling hills, with the East Branch of the Penobscot River flowing through the town.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Patten, Maine are approximately 45.96 degrees north latitude and 68.50 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Patten is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of 38.78 square miles (100.46 km²), with 38.58 square miles (99.92 km²) of it being land and 0.2 square miles (0.52 km²) being water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Patten had a population of approximately 1,017 residents. The town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, African American, Native American, Asian, or from other racial or ethnic backgrounds. The median age in Patten is around 50 years, with a fairly even distribution of males and females.
🏛️ History
Patten was first settled in 1828 and was incorporated as a town in 1841. It was named after Amos Patten, a resident of Bangor, Maine, who had purchased large tracts of land in Penobscot County. The town’s early economy was largely based on agriculture and lumbering, with the East Branch of the Penobscot River providing a convenient transportation route for logs.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Patten is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and scenic landscapes. It is located near Baxter State Park, a large wilderness area that is home to Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine. The region boasts a rich biodiversity, with numerous species of birds, mammals, and fish inhabiting the area.
🏫 Education
Education in Patten is managed by the RSU 89 school district. The town has one elementary school, Patten Primary School, which serves students from kindergarten through fourth grade. For middle and high school, students typically attend Katahdin Middle/High School located in the nearby town of Stacyville.
🚧 Transportation
Patten is served by State Route 11, which provides access to the nearby towns and cities. The town is also accessible via several county roads. For air travel, the nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport, located about 90 miles south of Patten.
📜 Trivia & Events
Patten is home to the Lumberman’s Museum, which showcases the history of the logging industry in Maine. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Patten Pioneer Days, a week-long celebration featuring parades, fireworks, and various community activities. Additionally, Patten’s proximity to Baxter State Park makes it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.