📍 Location & Geography
West Kennebunk is a village located in the town of Kennebunk in York County, Maine. It is nestled in the southeastern part of the state, approximately 25 miles south of Portland, Maine’s largest city. The village is bordered by the Kennebunk River to the east, and it is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and rural landscapes.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for West Kennebunk are 43.3845° N latitude and 70.5412° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Kennebunk is situated in the New England region of the United States, in the southern part of Maine. The village is part of the Portland-South Portland-Biddeford metropolitan area, which is the largest metro area in Maine. The village covers a relatively small area within the town of Kennebunk.
👥 Population & Demographics
As a village within the town of Kennebunk, West Kennebunk does not have its own separate population count. However, the town of Kennebunk, which includes West Kennebunk, has a population of approximately 11,000 people. The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Kennebunk is around 50 years, indicating a relatively older population.
🏛️ History
West Kennebunk’s history is tied to the town of Kennebunk, which was first settled in the 1620s and incorporated in 1820. The area was initially inhabited by the Abenaki people, who called the area “Kennebunk,” meaning “the long cut bank,” likely referring to the town’s long river bank. The village of West Kennebunk developed with the growth of the town and has been a part of Kennebunk’s history since its early days.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
West Kennebunk is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Kennebunk River, forests, and wildlife habitats nearby. The village is not far from Maine’s rocky coastline and sandy beaches, which are popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. The area experiences a humid continental climate, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.
🏫 Education
Education in West Kennebunk is provided by the Kennebunk School District, which serves the entire town of Kennebunk. The district operates several elementary schools, a middle school, and Kennebunk High School. There are also private school options in the broader Kennebunk area.
🚧 Transportation
West Kennebunk is served by U.S. Route 1, which runs north-south through the village. The Maine Turnpike (Interstate 95), a major highway in the region, is also easily accessible from West Kennebunk. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport, approximately 25 miles north of the village.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, the Animal Welfare Society, located in West Kennebunk, hosts the “Strut Your Mutt” event, a walk to raise funds for animals in need. The village is also home to the Dorothy Stevens Community Center, which hosts various community events and activities throughout the year.