📍 Location & Geography
Rumford is a town located in Oxford County, in the western part of the state of Maine, United States. It is nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains and is bordered by the Androscoggin River. The town’s area is characterized by a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces, along with vast stretches of forests, rivers, and mountains.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Rumford, Maine are approximately 44.55 degrees north latitude and 70.55 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Rumford is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of approximately 69.81 square miles (180.8 square kilometers), of which 68.28 square miles (176.8 square kilometers) is land and 1.53 square miles (4.0 square kilometers) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2020 U.S. Census, Rumford has a population of approximately 5,841 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of around 44 years. The racial makeup of Rumford is predominantly White, with other races making up a small percentage of the population.
🏛️ History
Rumford was incorporated as a town in 1800 and was named after Sir Benjamin Thompson, Count Rumford, an Anglo-American physicist known for his experiments with gunpowder. The town’s history is deeply tied to the paper industry, with the Rumford Falls Mill being a significant contributor to the local economy since the late 19th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Rumford is known for its natural beauty, with the Androscoggin River and the surrounding White Mountains offering stunning landscapes. The town is home to Rumford Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The town is also committed to environmental preservation, with several initiatives aimed at maintaining the cleanliness and sustainability of its natural resources.
🏫 Education
Rumford is served by the Regional School Unit 10 (RSU 10), which includes Rumford Elementary School, Mountain Valley Middle School, and Mountain Valley High School. The town also has a public library, the Rumford Public Library, which offers a variety of resources for residents of all ages.
🚧 Transportation
Rumford is accessible by road via U.S. Route 2 and Maine State Route 108. The town also has a small airport, the Rumford Municipal Airport, which caters to private and charter flights. For local transportation, residents rely on private vehicles, with a few also using biking and walking as means of getting around.
📜 Trivia & Events
Rumford is home to the annual “Mollyockett Day” festival, a community event that features a parade, live music, and various family-friendly activities. The town is also known for the Black Mountain of Maine ski area, which has hosted several national and international cross-country skiing events. In addition, Rumford’s paper mill is one of the largest employers in the region and is a significant part of the town’s identity.