📍 Location & Geography
Rockland is a city located in Knox County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is situated on the western side of Penobscot Bay and is approximately 82 miles northeast of Portland. The city covers a total area of 15.07 square miles, of which 12.01 square miles is land and 3.06 square miles is water. Rockland’s terrain is characterized by a mix of coastal plains and rolling hills, with a few steep cliffs along the shoreline.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates for Rockland, Maine are approximately 44.1037° N latitude and 69.1089° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Rockland is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is the county seat of Knox County and is located within the Portland-South Portland metropolitan area. The city is surrounded by several townships including Owls Head to the south, Thomaston to the west, and Rockport to the north.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Rockland had a population of 7,297. The city has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.2 years. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White, accounting for about 95.8% of the population, followed by African American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Rockland was first settled by Europeans in 1769 and was originally part of Thomaston. It was incorporated as a town in 1848 and later as a city in 1854. The city was named Rockland due to its rocky and mountainous terrain. Rockland’s economy was initially based on shipbuilding and lime production. In the 20th century, it became a major commercial and retail center for Knox County.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Rockland is known for its stunning coastal scenery, featuring Penobscot Bay and the surrounding hills. The city is home to several parks and green spaces, including Harbor Park, Snow Marine Park, and the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. The city is also located near the Camden Hills State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and panoramic views of the area.
🏫 Education
Education in Rockland is managed by the Regional School Unit 13. The city has several public schools, including Rockland District Middle School and Oceanside High School. There are also a few private schools in the area. For higher education, the University of Maine has a campus in nearby Rockport.
🚧 Transportation
Rockland is served by U.S. Route 1, which provides access to Portland to the southwest and Augusta to the northwest. The city is also accessible by sea through the Rockland Harbor. The Knox County Regional Airport, located just outside the city, offers regional flights. Public transportation is provided by the Mid-Coast Public Transportation Network.
📜 Trivia & Events
Rockland is famous for hosting the annual Maine Lobster Festival, a five-day event that celebrates the city’s lobster fishing heritage. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Center for Maine Contemporary Art located in downtown Rockland. The city has been named one of the “Coolest Small Towns in America” by Budget Travel magazine.