Cities In Maine - Quick Facts, History & Geography
Maine Quick Facts
Maine is often referred to as the "Pine Tree State" due to its dense forests of pine and spruce trees. There are a total of 457 towns and cities in Maine. Maine became the 23rd state to join the United States on March 15, 1820. Maine is the 39th largest state by land area and the 8th smallest state by population with around 1.4 million Residents. The capital city of Maine is Augusta and Portland is the largest city in Maine and serves as a major economic and cultural hub. Maine is renowned for its lobster industry, and it is one of the top lobster-producing states in the country. Maine is home to over 60 historic lighthouses, some of which are still active and add to the state's maritime charm. The Maine lobster yield is 40 million pounds per year, nearly 90% of the nation’s lobster supply. Maine has approximately 5,000 offshore islands and more than 6,000 lakes and ponds. The Vikings were the first to discover Maine, more than 1,000 years ago. Maine has a desert and it is a privately owned tourist attraction. Maine is the only state with just one other state (New Hampshire) on its border. Maine is the toothpick capital of the world, producing more than 90% of the country's toothpicks. Some famous Maine locals include Stephen King, Patrick Dempsey, Anna Kendrick, Judd Nelson, Erin Andrews, David E. Kelley and John O'Hurley.
Maine: The History
Before European arrival, Maine was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Abenaki, Passamaquoddy, Penobscot and Micmac. European explorers, including the French and English, arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries. In the early 17th century, the English established settlements in the region and Maine became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. In the late 17th century, Maine was affected by King Philip's War, a conflict between Native American tribes and English colonists. Throughout the 18th century, residents of Maine sought greater autonomy and separation from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. During the 19th century, Maine was a significant player in the shipping industry, with ships built in its shipyards sailing across the globe. During the American Civil War, Maine sent thousands of soldiers to fight for the Union cause. Notable regiments, such as the 20th Maine Infantry Regiment, played pivotal roles in key battles. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Maine experienced industrialization, with lumber and paper industries becoming major economic drivers. In the 20th century, Maine continued to evolve, diversifying its economy and embracing its maritime heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The Geography of Maine
Rocky shores, sandy beaches and beautiful coves - Maine boasts a stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, stretching over 3,500 miles. Penobscot Bay is a large, picturesque bay dotted with numerous islands, making it a popular destination for boating and exploration. Some of the notable islands include Mount Desert Island (home to Acadia National Park), Isle au Haut and Vinalhaven. The western part of Maine is part of the Appalachian Mountain range and the state is home to several prominent peaks, including Mount Katahdin, the highest point in the state and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Located in the northern part of Maine, Aroostook County is known for its vast agricultural lands and picturesque countryside. It is one of the largest counties in the United States by land area. Maine's landscape is characterized by dense forests, particularly of pine and spruce trees, hence its nickname.
A Relocation Guide to Maine
The state of Maine has a lot going for it, especially if you are talking about prime destinations for those people who want to live like they're on vacation. Maine is a state that entertains many visitors during the summer and if you looked at a map of cities in Maine, you'd know why. The state of Maine has miles and miles of beautiful beachfront that attracts both travelers and new residents. The largest cities are Portland, Bangor and the capital of Augusta, with Portland being the tourist center. Located not far from Boston, it is a city that features great history, as well as a number of excellent beaches.
The weather in Maine ranges from very cold in the winter to moderately warm on summer days. They have a very short summer, lasting only around three months. Overall, the cost of living in Maine is some of the lowest in all of New England, which adds to why so many people choose to move there. It is a vacation spot for many in New England and the mid-Atlantic, with those folks coming to places like Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor along the coast. Lately, more people have been moving out of the city areas to Maine to enjoy the relative simple lifestyle and the excellent food that's become its staple.
Maine is one of the safest states in America with an average crime rate that is almost half of the national average. Crime rates are slightly higher in Portland, but still very low for a larger city. Low crime is just one of the many reasons why Maine is a great place to live.
