📍 Location & Geography
Phippsburg is a charming town located in Sagadahoc County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the west side of the mouth of the Kennebec River and is surrounded by water on three sides. The town is known for its picturesque coastline, which includes sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and marshy lowlands. It is also home to several small islands, including Pond Island, Wood Island, and Morse Island.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Phippsburg are approximately 43.7792 degrees North latitude and 69.7995 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Phippsburg is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan statistical area. The town covers a total area of 43.33 square miles, of which 27.83 square miles is land and 15.50 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Phippsburg had a population of approximately 2,216 people. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant percentage of the population being retirees. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median household income in Phippsburg is above the national average, reflecting the town’s relatively high standard of living.
🏛️ History
The area now known as Phippsburg was originally inhabited by the Abenaki Native Americans. European settlers first arrived in the early 17th century and the town was incorporated in 1814. It was named after Sir William Phipps, the royal governor of Massachusetts, who was born in the area. Phippsburg has a rich maritime history, with shipbuilding and fishing being major industries in the past.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Phippsburg is known for its stunning natural beauty. It is home to the Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area, which offers breathtaking views of the coast and is a popular spot for birdwatching. Popham Beach State Park, with its wide sandy beach and historic Fort Popham, is another major attraction. The town is committed to preserving its natural environment and has several initiatives in place to protect local wildlife and habitats.
🏫 Education
Phippsburg is served by the Regional School Unit 1, which includes Phippsburg Elementary School, Bath Middle School, and Morse High School. The town is also within commuting distance of several colleges and universities, including Bowdoin College in Brunswick.
🚧 Transportation
Phippsburg is accessible by road via Maine State Route 209. The town does not have its own public transportation system, but residents can use the Greater Portland Transit District’s METRO BREEZ express bus service to travel to nearby cities. The nearest airport is the Portland International Jetport, which is about an hour’s drive away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Phippsburg is home to the Popham Beach Horseback Riding, a popular local event that attracts riders and spectators from all over the region. The town also hosts an annual summer concert series at the Phippsburg Congregational Church. One of the interesting facts about Phippsburg is that it was the filming location for the 1999 movie “Message in a Bottle,” starring Kevin Costner and Robin Wright.