Islesboro is a long, narrow island in Penobscot Bay directly across from the town of Lincolnville. With many harbors and coves, the island was home to the largest commercial shipping fleet in the bay during the 19th century. Following the Civil War, however, Islesboro developed as a Gilded Age resort community, and many large summer homes were built by the wealthy. Their large yachts cruised and raced throughout the Gulf of Maine. The island hosts a year-round population of lobstermen, carpenters, caretakers and other professionals.
Quick Facts
- Year-round population, 2010 U.S. Census: 566
- Summer population estimate: 1,000
- Acres: 9,024
- Mainland ferry terminal: Lincolnville
- Estimated distance between mainland and island ferry docks: 3 miles
- Ferry service: Maine State Ferry Service
- School: K–12
- Form of town government: Independent town
