Kittery
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| Kittery | |
|---|---|
| Name | Kittery |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Maine |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | York County |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | 1647 |
| Government type | Council–manager |
| Leader title | Town Manager |
| Leader name | Kendra Amaral |
| Area total km2 | 75.8 |
| Area land km2 | 43.8 |
| Area water km2 | 32.0 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 10,070 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Coordinates | 43, 05, 20, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 03904 |
| Area code | 207 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 23-37245 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0582535 |
| Website | www.kitteryme.gov |
Kittery is a town in York County, Maine, situated at the mouth of the Piscataqua River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Incorporated by the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1647, it is the oldest incorporated town in the state. Known historically for its shipbuilding and naval installations, it now serves as a gateway to Maine from New Hampshire via the Memorial Bridge and the Piscataqua River Bridge, and is famed for the Kittery Outlets, a major retail destination.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Abenaki people before becoming one of the earliest European settlements in the region, with early land grants issued by Ferdinando Gorges. The settlement was incorporated as a town by the Massachusetts Bay Colony, predating the formation of the District of Maine. Its strategic location made it a vital center for colonial-era shipbuilding, supplying vessels for the American Revolutionary War and later conflicts. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, established on an island in the Piscataqua River in 1800, became a cornerstone of the local economy and played critical roles during the War of 1812, the American Civil War, and both World War I and World War II. Historic sites include the Lady Pepperrell House and the Fort McClary State Historic Site, a coastal defense fortification with origins in the American Revolution.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 75.8 square miles, with a significant portion consisting of water features like the Piscataqua River and Spruce Creek. It borders the city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire to the west and includes several villages, such as Kittery Point and the island community of Badger's Island. The terrain varies from coastal lowlands to inland wooded areas, and the town is part of the Seacoast Region. Major transportation arteries include U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 95, which connect it to Boston and Portland, Maine.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 10,070, representing steady growth from previous decades. The racial makeup is predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino residents. The median household income is above the state average, reflecting the economic influence of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, professional services, and retail. Educational attainment levels are high, with a significant percentage of residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher.
Economy
The economy has historically been anchored by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, a major employer specializing in submarine overhaul and maintenance. The Kittery Outlets, a large complex of retail stores, draws significant tourism and commerce from across New England. Other economic sectors include healthcare, professional services, and a growing number of restaurants and boutique shops catering to visitors. The working waterfront supports commercial fishing and marine services, while tourism is bolstered by historic sites like Fort Foster Park and proximity to the beaches of York County, Maine.
Government and infrastructure
Kittery operates under a council–manager form of government, with a Town Council and an appointed Town Manager. Essential services are provided by the Kittery Police Department and the Kittery Fire Department. The town is part of Maine's 1st congressional district and is served by the Kittery School Department, which includes Traip Academy. Critical infrastructure includes the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which is accessed via bridges from New Hampshire, and the town's public utilities manage water, sewer, and solid waste services. Transportation needs are met by the Greater Portland Transit District and connections to the Downeaster passenger rail service.
Notable people
Notable individuals associated with the town include William Whipple, a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence who lived on Badger's Island; naval architect David W. Taylor; and Sir William Pepperrell, a merchant and soldier who led the Siege of Louisbourg (1745). Twentieth-century figures include artist and illustrator N.C. Wyeth, who had a studio in the area, and his son, painter Andrew Wyeth. More recent notable residents include actress and singer Megan Follows and former U.S. Senator from Maine, William Cohen.
Category:Towns in Maine Category:Towns in York County, Maine Category:Populated coastal places in Maine Category:1647 establishments in the Thirteen Colonies