📍 Location & Geography
Wells is a town located in York County, in the southern part of the state of Maine, United States. The town is situated on the Atlantic Ocean coast and is bordered by the towns of Kennebunk to the northeast, Sanford to the northwest, North Berwick to the west, South Berwick to the southwest, and Ogunquit to the south.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Wells, Maine are approximately 43.3229° N latitude, and 70.5805° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Wells is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town covers a total area of 57.63 square miles (149.27 km²), of which 57.20 square miles (148.15 km²) is land and 0.43 square miles (1.11 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Wells was 9,589. The town’s population swells during the summer months due to an influx of tourists. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with minorities including African American, Native American, Asian, and other races. The median age in Wells is around 50 years, which is significantly higher than the U.S. average.
🏛️ History
Wells was established in 1643 and is the third-oldest town in Maine. The town was named after the city of Wells in Somerset, England. It was originally a farming and fishing community, but with its beautiful beaches and proximity to major cities, it has become a popular summer destination.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Wells is known for its pristine beaches, including Wells Beach, Drakes Island Beach, and Crescent Beach. The town is also home to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, a 5,400-acre expanse of marshes and woodlands that provide a habitat for various wildlife. The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a popular spot for hiking and bird watching.
🏫 Education
Education in Wells is administered by the Wells-Ogunquit Community School District. The town has a high school, a junior high school, and an elementary school. For higher education, residents have access to nearby universities and colleges in the greater Portland area.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Wells is primarily by car, with U.S. Route 1 and the Maine Turnpike (Interstate 95) serving as the town’s main thoroughfares. The town is also served by the Amtrak Downeaster, which provides passenger rail service between Brunswick, Maine, and Boston, Massachusetts. The nearest commercial airport is Portland International Jetport, located about 35 miles to the north.
📜 Trivia & Events
Wells is known as “The Friendliest Town in Maine”. Every year, the town hosts the Wells Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series, featuring a variety of musical performances. The town is also home to the annual Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival, a popular event showcasing the work of over 100 artisans from across the country.