Solitude in the Maine Wilderness
The small town of Bowdoin developed in the mid-1700s as an agricultural town known for its sheep herds and apple orchards. Then came the sawmill and gristmill and brickyard. But today solitude and seclusion is what brings people to this little burgh of 3,000 sitting just outside Lewiston. “Mainers are friendly, but they still enjoy their own privacy,” says Matthew McGuire, Broker at Haggerty Realty. But while homes here are scattered across a densely forested area, residents are never far from the commercial areas in nearby towns and have direct access to the endless recreation for which Maine has become famous. Bowdoin’s population climbed 2.5% from 2010 to 2020, while surrounding towns like Brunswick saw an even greater uptick. This is indicative of a larger trend that has seen Maine’s population growth outpace the national average in recent years.
Eclectic mix of secluded houses
To call Bowdoin’s housing style eclectic would be an understatement. “The town has a classic New England DIY style,” McGuire says. “There are very unique types of properties that I like to call New Englanders because they don’t quite fit into any existing category.” These homes range from ranchers to Cape Cods to farmhouses with auxiliary units. One constant, however, is the seclusion. The median lot size is 4 acres, with residents spread out across the Maine Wilderness. McGuire says that despite the rural nature of the region, the market is very competitive, with prices ranging from $175,000 to $600,000. And plots are available for those looking to build their dream home.
Ample Outdoor Recreation
One of Bowdoin’s biggest perks is the abundance of outdoor recreation. Residents can lace up their hiking boots and head to the walking trails at the Purinton Homestead Conservation Area or pick some apples at the Rocky Ridge Orchard in the fall. Those looking for an adventure can head to Seaspray Kayaking and Paddle nearby and explore the hundreds of miles of coastline. Maine’s snowy winters can be enjoyed on the steep slopes at the Lost Valley Ski Area, under an hour away. McGuire says Bowdoin is also noted for its ample hunting opportunities.
Bowdoin Historical Society
Bowdoin’s lengthy history dates back to 1752, and the Bowdoin Historical Society seeks to preserve the town’s numerous historical landmarks. This includes the Viola Coombs Church, which has been added to the National Registry of Historic Places.
Shopping and Dining in nearby towns
Residents of Bowdoin enjoy the seclusion and escape from city life. However, when the need for shopping, dining, or a night out does arrive, residents may travel to commercial centers in neighboring towns. “Nearby Brunswick has a great dining scene,” McGuire says.
For those looking to stay within city limits, The Bowdoin Town store is a convenient stop for light groceries and a quick bite to eat. Residents can order or pick up seasonal fresh produce, canned goods, and other prepared foods from Scratch Farm, a local family farm serving Bowdoin since 2018.
Head to the Brunswick Train Station
Interstate 295 runs parallel to the town and connects residents to the city centers of Augusta to the north and Portland to the south. Residents can head to the Brunswick Train Station and hop on the Amtrack Downeaster, which runs five daily trips between Brunswick and Boston. Portland International Jetport is 40 miles away.
Public Schools with higher education nearby
The Maine School Administrative District 75 serves Bowdoin’s younger residents and received a B-minus on Niche. The district maintains an impressive 11:1 student-teacher ratio across eight schools. Students may begin their education at Bowdoin Central School, which received a B-plus rating on Niche. They may continue through Mt. Ararant Middle School and Mt. Ararant High School, both of which received a C-plus rating or higher. Bowdoin University might share a namesake with the town, but the private liberal arts school actually resides in Brunswick, just 10 miles away. Parents looking for a private school option may consider Lisbon Falls Christian Academy nearby.
Crime
Maine’s violent crime rate continues to be one of the lowest in the nation, with 103 violent incidences of crime reported per 100,000 people in 2022, according to an article by the Maine Morning Star. This low crime trend continues in Sagadahoc County, where the crime rate per 1,000 people decreased by 8.6% from 2021 to 2022. According to the CAP Index, Bowdoin received a crime score of 1, well below the national average.
Photography Contributed By
Jason Veilleux
