81 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Maine, Maine stands as the 39th most extensive and the 42nd most populous state among the 50 states in the U.S. Nestled in the New England region, it holds a distinctive position in the northeastern United States. With its diverse landscapes and seafaring culture, Maine occupies the 12th position among the smallest states in terms of area. On March 15, 1820, Maine achieved statehood, marking its entrance as the 23rd state to join the union.
Geography and Borders Situated in the New England region, Maine shares its border with only one neighboring state – New Hampshire. Its geographical location highlights the state’s unique connection to the northeastern part of the United States.
Comprising 16 counties, Maine is known for its diverse landscapes and is often referred to by its nicknames: the “Pine Tree State” and “Vacationland.” Augusta proudly serves as the capital city of Maine, reflecting its historical and administrative significance.
The postal abbreviation for Maine is simply “ME,” a concise representation used in correspondence and addresses throughout the state.
Facts
The Rich Historical Tapestry of Maine
1. Indigenous Inhabitants
Maine’s history traces back to its Native American roots, primarily from tribes within the Wabanaki Confederacy. The land was originally occupied by the Abenaki, Penobscot, Maliseet, and Passamaquoddy peoples. Collectively known as the Wabanaki, these tribes were referred to as the “People of the Dawn.”
2. Mysterious Viking Presence
Evidence of Viking influence surfaced in Maine’s history when a coin dating back to Olaf the Peaceful’s reign was discovered by local historians. The exact origins of this discovery remain uncertain, but it is believed to be a remnant left by a Norse expedition led by Leif Erikson, commonly known as Leif the Lucky.
3. European Exploration and Settlements
European exploration in Maine began with Spanish sailors in 1525. Subsequently, French, British, and Dutch colonizers established the region’s earliest settlements. The French explorer Pierre Dugua, Sieur de Mons, marked the arrival of the first European expedition in Maine, establishing roots on Saint Croix Island in 1604.
4. Revolutionary Era
During the American Revolution, Maine stood as a hub of patriotism. In 1775, the inaugural naval battle of the revolution occurred in Machias. Locals, refusing to supply wood to the British ship HMS Margaretta for barracks construction in Boston, seized the vessel using improvised weaponry.
5. Statehood and Union Admission
Formerly a part of Massachusetts, Maine faced vulnerabilities in defense against external threats. Residents advocated for statehood to ensure their protection. As a result, in 1820, Maine achieved statehood as the 23rd state in the United States. Missouri followed suit a year later.
Maine’s Unique and Fascinating Facts
6. Shifting Capitals
Portland served as Maine’s original state capital until Augusta became the capital in 1832. This move significantly impacted the state’s governance and administrative structure, marking a pivotal shift in its political landscape.
7. The Rural State
Maine’s distinction as the most rural state in the United States has played a crucial role in shaping its communities and lifestyle. The prevalence of rural areas contributes to its unique cultural heritage and lifestyle.
8. District of Massachusetts
Before gaining statehood in 1820, Maine’s status as a district of Massachusetts influenced its early governance and legal systems. This historical connection has left a lasting impact on the state’s legal and administrative framework.
9. Pioneering Genetics
The Jackson Laboratory, located in Maine, is not only the world’s largest provider of genetically purebred mice but also serves as a groundbreaking non-profit mammalian genetic research facility. Its contributions to genetic research have had global significance, fostering advancements in medicine and science.
10. Prestigious University
The University of Maine’s status as the oldest, largest, and sole research university in the state has been pivotal in shaping Maine’s academic landscape. Its academic contributions and research endeavors have significantly impacted various fields, including technology, healthcare, and the arts.
11. Samantha Smith’s Diplomacy
Samantha Smith’s courageous diplomatic efforts during the Cold War era, despite her young age, symbolized the power of empathy and diplomacy. Her tragic demise in an airplane crash in Auburn, Maine, added a poignant chapter to her inspiring story of goodwill and international outreach.
12. Lighthouse Haven
Maine’s impressive collection of over 60 lighthouses, with the historic Portland Head Light as its oldest beacon, signifies its maritime importance and history. These lighthouses serve as iconic symbols of Maine’s coastal heritage and navigation history.
13. Unique Lighthouse
Lubec, Maine’s hosting of the sole candy cane-striped lighthouse in America, the West Quoddy Head Light, has made it a distinctive landmark. Its architectural uniqueness and geographical significance draw visitors intrigued by its history and picturesque location.
14. Sparse Population
Maine’s relatively sparse population, especially in comparison to other states east of the Mississippi River, has influenced its social dynamics, offering a more serene and close-knit community atmosphere.
15. Earmuff Inventor
Chester Greenwood’s innovative spirit in inventing earmuffs in 1873, later patenting and manufacturing them for over six decades, underscores Maine’s legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship.
16. Birthplace of Board Games
Milton Bradley’s origins in Vienna, Maine, underscore the state’s surprising contributions to the entertainment industry and its impact on popular culture through board games.
17. Maine Coon Legacy
The Maine Coon’s designation as the official state cat signifies Maine’s appreciation for its natural heritage and unique wildlife, contributing to its cultural identity.
18. Eartha, the Giant Globe
Eartha’s construction in Yarmouth, Maine, as the world’s largest rotating and revolving globe, highlights the state’s involvement in innovative and awe-inspiring endeavors, attracting global attention and admiration.
Exploring Maine’s Unique Geography
19. Surrounded by Canada
Maine is the only U.S. state bordered on three sides by Canada, reflecting its close ties with its northern neighbor.
20. Covered in Forests
About 90% of Maine is covered in forests, earning it the nickname “Pine Tree State,” with New Hampshire being a close second in forest cover.
21. Farthest East Point
West Quoddy Head in Lubec, Maine, is the easternmost point in the lower 48 states, marking Maine’s most extreme location.
22. Sunrise City and Whale Haven
Eastport, Maine, the easternmost city in the U.S., sees the earliest sunrise daily and is a great spot for whale sightings.
23. Lakes, Rivers, and Saint John River
Maine boasts over 2,500 lakes, 5,000 rivers, and the extensive 418-mile Saint John River that separates Maine from Canada.
24. Majestic Mount Katahdin
Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak at 5,268 feet, is famous among hikers and marks the end of the Appalachian Trail.
25. Long Coastal Stretch
Maine’s coastline measures a remarkable 3,478 miles and has deep harbors that could host the world’s naval fleets.
26. Abundant Islands
Maine has over 4,000 islands, but only a few have permanent residents, while others receive occasional visitors.
27. Popular Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is among the most visited parks in the U.S., attracting over 3.5 million visitors in 2018. Cadillac Mountain in the park is known for its sunrise views and diverse landscapes accessible through a network of roads.
Maine’s Diverse Cultural and Natural Marvels
28. Pioneering Transit Legacy
Situated in Kennebunkport, Maine, the Seashore Trolley Museum proudly holds the title of being the world’s oldest and most extensive collection of mass transit history.
29. Athletic Trailblazers
Hailing from Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Joan Benoit Samuelson made history as the inaugural female Olympic Games marathon champion, clinching the gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Inducted into the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame in 2000, she continues to inspire by returning to the Boston Marathon at the age of 61 in 2019, finishing the race in a commendable 3:04.
30. Innovator and Entrepreneur
Robert Benjamin Lewis, a notable figure from Gardiner, Maine, stood as one of the few African-Americans in the 19th century to patent their inventions. His creation, “Lewis’ Arabian Hair Oil,” aimed to nurture and elongate hair while enhancing its vitality, securing three patents in the United States.
31. Bagging Success: Margaret Knight’s Legacy
Maine-born Margaret Knight pioneered the machine that manufactures the flat-bottomed paper bags ubiquitous in modern shopping and various industries today.
32. Economic Insights: Maine’s Financial Landscape
Research from theseniorlist.com, utilizing data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, reveals Maine’s standing as one of the nation’s less affordable states, with expenses consuming 91% of its residents’ total income, notably higher than the national average of 81%.
33. Rarity in the Waters: Two-Toned Lobster Discovery
A remarkable two-toned lobster, a one-in-50 million discovery, was recently found in Stonington, Maine, exhibiting striking black and orange halves across its body, astonishing scientists and marine enthusiasts alike.
34. Centenarian Crustaceans and Maine’s Abundant Lobster Yield
The largest lobster caught in Maine in 1926, weighing over 50 pounds, is estimated to have surpassed a century in age. Maine’s lobster industry boasts over 119 million pounds of the prized seafood caught in 2018, while lobsters exhibit a diverse range of blood colors, including grey, blue, orange, green, and light pink.
35. Moose Haven
After Alaska, Maine proudly hosts the second-largest population of moose within the United States.
36. Monosyllabic Marvel: Maine’s Unique Name
Maine stands apart as the sole state in the United States with a name comprising just one syllable.
37. Historic Constitutional Legacy
Maine proudly upholds one of the oldest state constitutions in the nation, effective since 1819, reflecting its enduring commitment to governance and the rule of law.
38. Trailblazing Electoral Reform
In 2016, Maine made history by implementing ranked-choice voting for statewide elections concerning the governorship, state legislature, and Congressional seats, setting a precedent for election methodologies across the nation.
39. Snow Clearing Regulations
Maine’s Department of Transportation mandates clearing snow off windshields before operating vehicles. However, legislative requirements for snow removal from vehicles only apply if the snow obstructs the operator’s view of the road or intersections.
40. Identity and Debate: “Mainers” and “Mainiacs”
Natives deeply rooted in Maine are often referred to as “Mainers,” although the informal term “Mainiac” is embraced by some while rejected by others. Businesses and event organizers cleverly leverage these terms for attention and marketing purposes.
41. Regional Linguistic Diversity
Visitors swiftly notice the distinctive speech patterns of locals, characterized by the absence of pronounced R’s. However, the accent varies across different regions of the state.
42. Thrills and Adventures at Funtown Splashtown
Thrill-seekers find exhilaration at the Funtown Splashtown theme park, home to Excalibur, Maine’s sole wooden roller coaster. With towering heights of 100 ft and an 82-ft drop, it reigns as the largest in Northern New England.
43. Enchanting Trails of Libations
Drawing millions of visitors yearly, Maine boasts the renowned Maine Wine Trail, encompassing over two dozen wineries, alongside the Maine Beer Trail, offering a choice among more than 100 breweries for enthusiasts to explore and savor.
Maine’s Endearing State Symbols
44. Wild Blueberries: A Treasured Harvest
Maine holds an unparalleled affection for wild blueberries, boasting the world’s most significant harvest of this delectable fruit. Locals showcase their love for blueberries through a myriad of culinary creations, including pies, pancakes, oatmeal scones, gelato, syrup, muffins, ketchup, cakes, and an array of innovative dishes.
45. Whoopie Pie Delight: Culinary Celebration
The beloved whoopie pie claims its place as Maine’s cherished state treat. This delightful confection comprises two luscious chocolate cakes enveloping a creamy filling, celebrated annually at the Whoopie Pie Festival, where local bakers showcase their most exceptional and creative variations of this beloved dessert.
46. Sociable Avian Resident: Black-capped Chickadee
Unlike many birds, the black-capped chickadee exhibits an endearing trait of familiarity with humans. This small, melodious songbird not only approaches humans but may even feed from an open hand, making itself at home in people’s backyards and establishing lasting residency.
47. Majestic Feline: Maine Coon Charm
The Maine coon, a majestic and fluffy feline, earns its place as the state cat. This gentle giant can reach impressive lengths of up to 48.5 inches and mirrors canine traits with its sociable, loyal, and affectionate nature. Renowned for above-average intelligence, Maine coons easily adapt to training and thrive as stress-free household companions.
48. Towering Emblem of Sustainability: Eastern White Pine
Affectionately known as “The Pine Tree State,” Maine proudly showcases its commitment to sustainable forestry through the Eastern White Pine, its designated state tree. Over 80% of the state remains blanketed by forests, harboring these majestic pines that soar to incredible heights of up to 200 feet, symbolizing Maine’s dedication to preserving its natural landscapes and fostering environmentally conscious practices in forestry.
Maine’s Diverse Economic Landscapes
49. Lobster Dominance and Economic Impact
Maine serves as the primary hub for lobster production in the United States, accounting for nearly 90% of the nation’s lobster supply, with an annual catch reaching an impressive 40 million pounds. This thriving industry sustains numerous livelihoods, encompassing everyone from dedicated lobstermen to bustling seafood restaurants, even commemorated annually through a cherished celebration dedicated to this cherished crustacean.
50. Precious Minerals and Historical Traditions
Tourmaline has held significant cultural value among Maine’s Native American communities for centuries, notably serving as a customary funeral offering. Although large-scale mining commenced in 1822 after the stone attracted the attention of entrepreneurs, Maine boasts mineral deposits encompassing quartz, amethyst, citrine, mica, and feldspar.
51. Nautical Heritage and Modern Maritime Economy
Renowned for its copious forests and accessible harbors, Maine’s rich resources have historically positioned it as a prime locale for boat building since the era of its earliest settlers. Today, the state remains a hub for some of the world’s most esteemed ship-building companies, continuing to bolster the economy through their manufacturing facilities.
52. Decline of the Toothpick Empire
Once revered as the “Toothpick Capital of the World,” the town of Strong in Maine reached its zenith by producing a staggering 7 billion toothpicks annually. However, a decline in sales ensued, attributed to the surge of cost-effective alternatives flooding in from Asia and the burgeoning popularity of dental floss.
53. Agricultural Excellence in Limited Space
Despite dedicating merely 13% of its land to farming, Maine emerges as a leading producer of various agricultural staples within the United States. The state’s agricultural prowess encompasses potatoes, grains, apples, sweet corn, and maple syrup, showcasing remarkable productivity and diversity in its farming endeavors.
Noteworthy Personalities from Maine
54. Bette Davis: Hollywood Trailblazer
Residing in Maine’s Cape Elizabeth, the illustrious Bette Davis, a two-time Oscar recipient, etched her name in Hollywood’s annals. Revered as “The Fourth Warner Brother,” Davis championed actors’ rights, earning widespread admiration, including the respect of studio executives, due to her fiery spirit and unwavering advocacy.
55. Stephen King: Literary Maestro
Maine-born novelist Stephen King solidified his place as a literary maestro, renowned for seamlessly blending crime, suspense, fantasy, supernatural elements, and science fiction in his works. Earning the title “King of Horror,” he has remarkably sold over 350 million copies of his books. Alongside his wife Tabitha, King actively engages in charitable endeavors within the state.
56. Nelson Rockefeller: Business Luminary and Politician
Originating from Bar Harbor, Maine, Nelson Rockefeller emerged as a significant figure in both business and politics. Engaging in his family’s business empire post-graduation, he ascended to a prominent role in the political arena. Elected as New York’s governor in 1959, Rockefeller later assumed the vice presidency of the United States in 1974, wielding considerable influence throughout his career.
57. Erin Andrews: Versatile Sportscaster and Influential Personality
Hailing from Lewiston, Maine, Erin Andrews soared to prominence as a versatile sportscaster, showcasing her expertise across various sports for ESPN and Fox Sports. Covering an extensive spectrum including hockey, football, baseball, basketball, and more, Andrews diversified her influence as an endorser for notable brands like Reebok, Kraft Foods, StubHub, Covergirl, and various other esteemed companies.
Distinctive Attractions in Maine
58. Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Resort: Alpine Haven in Carrabassett Valley
Nestled in Carrabassett Valley, Maine, Sugarloaf Mountain stands as a haven for skiing enthusiasts. With a towering peak reaching 4,237 feet, this resort offers a picturesque landscape visible from the nearby Appalachian Trail. Boasting 14 lifts capable of accommodating up to 21,810 skiers per hour, Sugarloaf provides exhilarating runs extending up to 3.5 miles, creating an unforgettable alpine experience.
59. Palace Playland at Old Orchard Beach: Timeless Amusement Destination
Established in 1902, Palace Playland in Old Orchard Beach offers a timeless amusement experience sprawled across a 5-acre property. Hosting 28 thrilling rides, the park maintains its classic ambiance while featuring the state’s largest arcade and an annual summer spectacle with vibrant fireworks illuminating the sky.
60.Houlton’s Aroostook Town: Preserved Heritage and Victorian Splendor
Rich in historical heritage, Houlton’s Aroostook town showcases Maine’s vibrant past through well-maintained Victorian homes and the esteemed National Historic District known as Market Square. The town is also home to the Temple Theater, a testament to Maine’s cinematic legacy as its oldest cinema.
61. Freeport’s Retail Charm and L.L. Bean Flagship Store
Downtown Freeport beckons visitors with its unique charm, where the iconic sight of a colossal 16-foot boot adorns a building – the renowned L.L. Bean flagship store. Set within a vibrant shopping district, Freeport offers not only the famous retailer but also an array of delightful artisan shops and restaurants, creating an inviting ambiance for shoppers and explorers alike.
Unique Cultural Traditions of Maine
62. Chilly New Year Plunges for Charity In a daring display of spirit, several brave swimmers inaugurate the New Year by plunging into the frigid waters of Maine’s beaches. Portland hosts the Polar Bear Dip, while Old Orchard Beach celebrates with the Lobster Dip, and Kennebunk presents the Freezin’ for a Reason event, all of which serve as charitable endeavors spread across the state.
63. Fryeburg Fair: Evolution of Community Showcase Initiated in 1851 by forward-thinking farmers and merchants, the Fryeburg Fair originally aimed to exhibit local products within the community. Over time, this modest event burgeoned into one of Maine’s most prominent fairs, drawing multitudes of visitors from the region to partake in its festivities.
64. Melodic Diversity at Bar Harbor Music Festival Embracing a love for diverse musical genres, Maine hosts the Bar Harbor Music Festival, offering a rich tapestry of musical experiences. Concert attendees revel in performances ranging from jazz bands, string orchestras, brass ensembles, operas, and an eclectic array of musical genres, catering to various tastes and preferences.
65. Family Fun with the Trek Across Maine The Trek Across Maine stands as a lively charity cycling event that captivates entire families. Spanning a scenic 180-mile route from Sunday River to Belfast, cyclists revel in the picturesque journey. For those seeking a shorter route, the 97-mile option still offers a delightful exploration of Maine’s beauty, fostering a newfound appreciation for the state’s landscapes.
66. Quirky Athletic Competition: North American Wife Carrying Championship Bethel’s Sunday River hosts a distinctive and whimsical race that draws couples seeking a thrilling challenge. Men participate by carrying their wives on their backs across a muddy route, competing for a unique reward: the woman’s weight in beer and a prize money equivalent to 5 times her weight, adding a playful twist to this unconventional championship.
Exploring Maine’s Largest Cities
67. Portland: Historical Seaport and Economic Hub
Once Maine’s initial state capital, Portland stands as a significant transatlantic port closest to Europe and ranks as the 20th largest fishing port in the nation, fostering a robust maritime economy.
68. Lewiston: Acclaimed Residential Destination
As Maine’s second-largest city, Lewiston earned recognition in Forbes magazine as one of the top 25 places to retire in 2017, solidifying its appeal as a sought-after residential location.
69. Bangor: Flourishing “Queen City”
Renowned as Maine’s “Queen City,” Bangor flourished since its establishment in the mid-1800s by European-American settlers. Today, a diverse economic landscape thrives, led by retail, education, healthcare, and various service sectors.
70. South Portland: Industrial and Retail Epicenter
Emerging from Cape Elizabeth in 1895, South Portland has evolved into a pivotal industrial and retail center within the region, propelled by its strategic connectivity to marine, air, rail, and highway transportation networks.
71. Auburn: Historic Twin City Partner
Nestled in south-central Maine, Auburn, established in 1786, forms one-half of the Lewiston-Auburn Twin Cities, contributing to the state’s cultural and economic tapestry.
72. Biddeford: Historic Settlement and Cultural Hub
An ancient European settlement since 1616, Biddeford hosts the La Kermesse Franco-Americaine Festival and houses The University of New England, preserving its rich heritage and cultural significance.
73. Sanford: Riverside Haven with Natural Charms
Occupying a spot as Maine’s seventh-largest city, Sanford offers a scenic landscape featuring wooded areas and lakes along the Mousam River, contributing to the state’s metropolitan allure.
74. Saco: Indigenous Roots and Tourist Allure
Founded by the Sokoki tribe of Abenaki Indians, Saco thrives as a popular tourist destination owing to its historical significance, amusement parks, and scenic recreational spots.
75. Westbrook: Named After a Historical Figure
Renamed after Colonel Thomas Westbrook, Westbrook boasts the Rock Row activity hub, offering diverse entertainment options and cultural experiences for residents and visitors.
76. Augusta: Maine’s Capital and Historic Seat of Governance
Distinguished as the state capital, Augusta stands as one of the least populated state capitals in the U.S., with a population of approximately 19,000 residents, hosting an array of administrative and governmental functions.
Vibrant Realities of Life in Maine
77. Varied Landscapes and Culinary Delights
Maine’s allure rests in its rugged, rocky Atlantic coastlines, scenic mountains, lush forests, and captivating waterways. Celebrated for its wild blueberries and exquisite seafood, notably the renowned lobster and clams, the state boasts a vibrant culinary scene deeply intertwined with its natural bounty.
78. Creative Hub Amidst Socioeconomic Challenges
While coastal regions like Portland thrive as a pivotal hub for the creative economy, Maine grapples with significant poverty, notably in its rural areas. The state’s culture encapsulates a resilient populace immersed in an eclectic and diverse society, portraying an amalgamation of varied cultural influences.
79. Maritime Legacy and Artistic Heritage
Rooted in a strong connection with the sea, Maine’s history is steeped in maritime adventures, shipbuilding legacies, and the artistry of its sailors showcased through wood carving and scrimshaw. Today, the state witnesses a revival in local crafts such as pottery, weaving, carving, and metalwork, honoring its artistic heritage.
80. Haven for Art and Tranquility
Maine’s serene charm has attracted and nurtured renowned American artists like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Stephen King, Andrew Wyeth, and Winslow Homer, who either hailed from the state or chose it as their home. The Portland Museum of Art stands as a testament to Maine’s rich artistic heritage, complemented by various cultural programs supporting the arts across communities.
81. Nature’s Sanctuary and Tranquil Living
Embraced by its inhabitants as a serene and peaceful haven, Maine boasts a population of 1.3 million amidst a landscape adorned by an estimated 24 billion trees, inviting those seeking solace from bustling city life. With over 90% forest coverage and around 3,500 miles of rugged Atlantic coastline, Maine captivates nature enthusiasts, offering a paradise-like setting for those yearning for natural splendor and tranquility.
Evolution and Symbolism of the Maine State Flag: A Historical Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Flag Adoption | The current Maine state flag, featuring the state’s coat of arms on a blue background, was adopted by the state legislature in February 1909. Maine is among 26 states in the U.S. using a blue flag with a state seal. |
| Pre-1909 Flag | The 1901 Maine flag showcased a green pine tree and a blue North Star, symbolizing freedom and common motifs in New England. |
| Flag Assessment | A 2001 survey rated Maine’s flag as one of the least favorable in America. Efforts in 2019 to adopt a simpler flag based on the 1901 design were proposed by Maine lawmakers, yet attempts for change were unsuccessful. |
| Designers | Bertha Smouse crafted the state seal, while General John T. Richards conceptualized the original Maine flag with a blue star in the canton and a central pine tree. The Maine Congress played a pivotal role in designing the 1909 flag. |
| Flag Creation | In 1901, the legislature issued an official pattern featuring a green pine tree for the flag. A subsequent 1909 law established specifications, including size, colors, and design elements, formalizing the state flag. |
| Symbolism | The flag embodies a seaman and a farmer, reflecting Maine’s historical reliance on agriculture and maritime industries. The blue color signifies justice, truth, vigilance, and loyalty, while the pine tree represents Maine’s thriving timber industry. |
| Blue Color Choice | War veterans in the legislature sought a flag reminiscent of battle flags from earlier wars. They chose blue, akin to the Union soldiers’ uniform, as opposed to the Confederacy soldiers’ grey attire. |
Maine: A Comprehensive Overview of Facts and State Symbols
| Maine Quick Facts and State Symbols | Details |
|---|---|
| State Animal | Moose  |
| State Flag |  |
| State Nickname | Pine Tree State |
| Longitude | 66° 57′ W to 71° 5′ W |
| State Dog | Chinook  |
| State Gem | Tourmaline  |
| State Berry | Blueberry  |
| Statehood | March 15, 1820 |
| State Insect | Honey Bee  |
| State Motto | Dirigo (I lead) |
| State Size | Total (Land + Water): 35,385 sq miles; Land Only: 30,862 sq miles |
| State Vessel | Bowdoin  |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone |
| State Fossil | Pertica Quadrifaria  |
| Population | 1,385,340 (Estimate July 1, 2022 from United States Census Bureau) |
| State Fish | Landlocked Salmon  |
| State Floral Emblem | White Pine Cone and Tassel  |
| State Flag |  |
| State seal |  |
| State Language | None |
| State Bird | Chickadee  |
| State Coat of Arms |  |
| Governor | Janet Mills (D) |
| State Capital | Augusta |
| State Herb | Wintergreen  |
| State Highest Point | Mount Katahdin – 5,270 ft (1606.4 m) |
| State Lowest Point | Atlantic Ocean – Sea level |
| State Dog | Chinook  |
| State Rank by Date of Formation | 23rd |
| State Width | 210 miles (338 km) |
| State Berry | Blueberry  |
| State Famous People | – Anna Kendrick (Actress) – Patrick Dempsey (Actor) |
| State Herb | Wintergreen  |
| State Rank by Area | 39th |
| State Governor | Janet Mills (D) |
| State Tree | Eastern White Pine  |
| State Width | 210 miles (338 km) |
| State Latitude | 42° 58′ N to 47° 28′ N |
| State Website | www.maine.gov |
| State % Water | 13.5 |
| State Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone |
| State Rank by Population | 42nd |
| State Number of Counties | 16 |
| State Rank by Population | 42nd |
| State Rank by Date of Formation | 23rd |
| State Electoral Votes | 4 |
| State Motto | Dirigo (I lead) |
| State Bordering States | New Hampshire |
| State Coat of Arms |  |
| Table last updated | November 21, 2023 |
Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Maine FAQs
What is Maine known for?
Maine is known for its stunning coastline, picturesque lighthouses, delicious lobster, blueberries, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant fall foliage.
Why is Maine famous for lobster?
Maine’s cold and rocky coastline provides an ideal habitat for lobsters, making it one of the world’s leading lobster producers. The state’s lobster industry is renowned for its high-quality and delicious seafood.
What makes Maine’s coastline unique?
Maine boasts a jagged and rocky coastline, dotted with charming fishing villages, historic lighthouses like Portland Head Light, and picturesque harbors that contribute to its unique and captivating seaside charm.
What outdoor activities can you do in Maine?
Maine offers various outdoor activities, including hiking in Acadia National Park, kayaking or canoeing in its rivers and lakes, whale watching along the coast, skiing in winter at places like Sugarloaf and Sunday River, and camping in its scenic wilderness areas.
What historical sites or landmarks are notable in Maine?
Maine features historical sites like the Wadsworth-Longfellow House in Portland, the Portland Observatory, Fort Knox State Historic Site, and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, reflecting its historical significance.
Does Maine have a significant fishing industry?
Yes, fishing is a significant industry in Maine. Besides lobster, the state is known for its commercial fishing of cod, haddock, clams, and other seafood, contributing to the coastal economy.
