📍 Location & Geography
Woolwich is a charming town located in Sagadahoc County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Kennebec River and is part of the Portland-South Portland-Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area. The town covers a total area of 39.68 square miles, of which 35.73 square miles is land and 3.95 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Woolwich, Maine are approximately 43.9183° N latitude and 69.8017° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Woolwich is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is located in Sagadahoc County, which is in the southern part of the state of Maine. The town is surrounded by the towns of Bath to the north, West Bath to the east, Arrowsic to the south, and the city of Richmond to the west, across the Kennebec River.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Woolwich was 3,072. The population density was 86.0 inhabitants per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was 97.6% White, 0.4% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.9% from two or more races. The median age in the town was 44.2 years.
🏛️ History
Woolwich was first settled in 1638 by Edward Bateman and John Brown. They were fishermen, but the Kennebec River provided a great trade route to reach the interior. The town was incorporated on March 4, 1759, and named after Woolwich, England. Woolwich has a rich shipbuilding history, with the first ship built in the town in 1764.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Woolwich is known for its natural beauty, with the Kennebec River providing a stunning backdrop. The town is home to the Merrymeeting Bay, a freshwater tidal bay where six rivers converge. This unique environment is a haven for wildlife and is recognized for its ecological importance. The town also has several parks and nature preserves, including the Woolwich Wildlife Management Area and the Montsweag Preserve.
🏫 Education
Education in Woolwich is managed by the Woolwich Central School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. For high school, students typically attend Morse High School in Bath. There are also several private schools and colleges within driving distance.
🚧 Transportation
Route 1, a major north-south highway in Maine, passes through Woolwich, providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The town is also served by the Bath Iron Works commuter bus. The nearest airport is the Portland International Jetport, located about 40 miles southwest of Woolwich.
📜 Trivia & Events
Woolwich is home to the annual Woolwich Day, a community event that features a parade, games, food, and other festivities. The town is also known for its historical sites, including the Nequasset Meeting House, which is the oldest church in Maine, and the Woolwich Historical Society, which preserves the town’s rich history.