County of penobscot
maine
History & Founding
Penobscot County, nestled in eastern Maine, holds a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. Established in 1802 from Piscataquis County, its name honors the Penobscot Nation, a Wabanaki people who have inhabited the region for millennia. The word "Penobscot" itself is derived from a combination of Abenaki words meaning "at the place of the falls," referencing the dramatic Penobscot River rapids. Early settlement was spurred by the lucrative timber industry and the desire for land grants. During the War of 1812, the Battle of Hampden, a significant naval engagement, took place within the county, marking a brief but intense period of conflict. The county played a crucial role in Maine's development, serving as a vital transportation hub and a source of timber that fueled the state's early industries. An interesting anecdote from the 1840s recounts how Bangor, then a rapidly growing lumber town, briefly became the largest city in the United States due to its booming timber trade, though this title was short-lived.
Geography & Landscape
The county sprawls across a diverse landscape, occupying a significant portion of eastern Maine. Situated between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic coast, it boasts a varied terrain of rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling waterways. The Penobscot River, the longest river entirely within Maine, dominates the county's geography, carving a scenic route to the Atlantic. Numerous lakes, including Pushaw Lake and Sebago Lake (partially within the county), dot the landscape, providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the area’s beauty. The climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Notable natural features include Baxter State Park, home to Mount Katahdin, the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, and extensive tracts of old-growth forest.
Economy & Communities
The county is a blend of rural and urban influences, with Bangor serving as its vibrant county seat and largest city. Other significant towns include Brewer, Old Town, and Millinocket. Historically, the economy was driven by lumbering and shipbuilding, but today, it’s more diversified. Healthcare, tourism, retail, and education are major economic drivers. Agriculture, though not extensive, includes potato farming and maple syrup production. Notable employers include St. Joseph Hospital, Eastern Maine Medical Center, and several large retailers. The character of the area is a mix of small-town charm and urban amenities, with a strong sense of community and a deep connection to the natural environment. Many residents maintain a strong connection to the region's rich logging history.
Points of Interest
Penobscot County offers a wealth of attractions for residents and visitors alike. Stephen King's legacy is deeply woven into the county's identity, with Bangor serving as his long-time residence and inspiration for many of his works. The Maine Maritime Museum in Bath (just outside the county) showcases the area’s rich shipbuilding history. Several parks, including Riverside Park in Bangor, provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. The annual Bangor State Fair is a beloved tradition. The county is also home to the Dolly the Dinosaur exhibit, a quirky roadside attraction that draws visitors from around the world. The Penobscot Nation Museum in Old Town offers a valuable glimpse into the history and culture of the indigenous people who have called this region home for centuries.
Information
- State
- maine
- Type
- County
- Population
- 144,919
- Land area
- 3,396 sq mi
- Capital
- Bangor
- Time zone
- UTC-5
- FIPS
- 23019
48 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Bangor | 31,473 | 158 ft (48 m) |
| Orono | 9,112 | 132 ft (40 m) |
| Brewer | 8,987 | 70 ft (21 m) |
| Old Town | 8,130 | 108 ft (33 m) |
| Hampden | 6,327 | 132 ft (40 m) |
| Millinocket | 5,190 | 358 ft (109 m) |
| Hermon | 4,437 | 178 ft (54 m) |
| Orrington | 3,526 | 140 ft (43 m) |
| Newport | 3,017 | 202 ft (62 m) |
| Milford | 2,950 | 130 ft (40 m) |
| Lincoln | 2,933 | 220 ft (67 m) |
| Holden | 2,827 | 200 ft (61 m) |
| Corinth | 2,511 | - |
| Carmel | 2,416 | 200 ft (61 m) |
| Dexter | 2,201 | 500 ft (152 m) |
| Levant | 2,171 | 130 ft (40 m) |
| Corinna | 2,145 | 250 ft (76 m) |
| Eddington | 2,052 | 146 ft (45 m) |
| East Millinocket | 1,828 | 375 ft (114 m) |
| Veazie | 1,744 | 150 ft (46 m) |
| Enfield | 1,616 | 211 ft (64 m) |
| Medway | 1,489 | 296 ft (90 m) |
| Greenbush | 1,421 | 120 ft (37 m) |
| Charleston | 1,397 | 471 ft (144 m) |
| Hudson | 1,393 | 137 ft (42 m) |
| Plymouth | 1,257 | 280 ft (85 m) |
| Bradley | 1,242 | 100 ft (30 m) |
| Howland | 1,210 | 170 ft (52 m) |
| Bradford | 1,186 | 235 ft (72 m) |
| Kenduskeag | 1,171 | 127 ft (39 m) |
| Patten | 1,111 | 546 ft (166 m) |
| Dixmont | 1,065 | 543 ft (166 m) |
| Etna | 1,012 | 234 ft (71 m) |
| Exeter | 997 | - |
| Garland | 990 | 363 ft (111 m) |
| Stetson | 981 | 225 ft (69 m) |
| Lee | 845 | 408 ft (124 m) |
| Mattawamkeag | 825 | 217 ft (66 m) |
| Alton | 816 | 170 ft (52 m) |
| Lagrange | 747 | 314 ft (96 m) |
| Clifton | 743 | 307 ft (94 m) |
| Chester | 525 | 257 ft (78 m) |
| Passadumkeag | 441 | 143 ft (44 m) |
| Winn | 420 | 250 ft (76 m) |
| Stacyville | 405 | 569 ft (173 m) |
| Springfield | 379 | 555 ft (169 m) |
| Burlington | 351 | 523 ft (159 m) |
| Lowell | 291 | 182 ft (55 m) |