📍 Location & Geography
Lubec is a charming town located in Washington County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the easternmost tip of the mainland of the U.S. and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, and by New Brunswick, Canada to the north and west. The town encompasses an area of 78.38 square miles, of which 33.36 square miles is land and 45.02 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Lubec, Maine are approximately 44°51′38″N latitude and 66°59′5″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Lubec is part of the Down East region of Maine, an area known for its rugged coastline and maritime history. The town is part of Washington County, which is in the northeastern part of the state. Lubec is the easternmost town in the contiguous United States and is nearly surrounded by water, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, and the Bay of Fundy to the north and west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Lubec has a population of approximately 1,359 residents. The town has a largely homogeneous population, with the majority of residents being of Caucasian descent. The median age in Lubec is around 54.7 years, which is significantly higher than the national average.
🏛️ History
Lubec was first settled in 1785 and was incorporated as a town in 1811. The town was named after Lübeck, Germany, in honor of the German immigrants who contributed to the growth of the town. Lubec’s economy was historically based on maritime industries, including fishing, shipbuilding, and notably, sardine canning. At one point, the town was home to over 20 sardine canneries, earning it the title “Sardine Capital of the World”. Today, the town’s economy is more diversified, with tourism playing a significant role.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Lubec is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The town is home to the Quoddy Head State Park, which features hiking trails, a lighthouse, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is also a popular spot for bird watching, with a variety of species frequenting the area throughout the year.
🏫 Education
Education in Lubec is managed by the Lubec School Department. The town has one school, Lubec Consolidated School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend nearby high schools in the surrounding towns or counties.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Lubec primarily relies on personal vehicles, with U.S. Route 1 and Maine State Route 189 being the main thoroughfares. The town is also served by a local bus service. The nearest airport is Eastport Municipal Airport, located about 25 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Lubec is home to the West Quoddy Head Light, the easternmost lighthouse in the U.S. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Bay of Fundy International Marathon and the SummerKeys Music Workshops. Lubec’s unique location also makes it one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise.