Windham, Maine
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| Windham, Maine | |
|---|---|
| Name | Windham |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Maine |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Cumberland County |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | 1737 |
| Government type | Council–manager government |
| Leader title | Town Manager |
| Leader name | Barry A. Tibbetts |
| Area total km2 | 128.15 |
| Area land km2 | 115.44 |
| Area water km2 | 12.71 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 18,434 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern Time Zone |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Coordinates | 43, 48, 50, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 04062 |
| Area code | 207 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 23-86035 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0582822 |
| Website | www.windhammaine.us |
Windham, Maine. Windham is a town in Cumberland County, Maine, part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area. Settled in the early 18th century and incorporated in 1737, it has evolved from a farming community into a residential suburb while retaining significant rural character. The town is known for its numerous lakes, including Sebago Lake and Little Sebago Lake, which are major recreational assets.
History
The area was originally part of a land grant known as New Marblehead, purchased from Chief Polin of the Abenaki people. Early settlement was challenged by conflicts during Dummer's War and the French and Indian Wars. The community was incorporated in 1737, named for Windham, Connecticut, the former home of many early settlers. Throughout the 19th century, its economy was driven by agriculture and small-scale industry, such as the Gambrel Roofed mills on the Presumpscot River. The arrival of the Portland and Ogdensburg Railway in the 1870s spurred growth and tourism, particularly around its lakeshores. The Windham Historical Society preserves artifacts from this era at the Old Town House Museum.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 128.15 square miles, with significant portions covered by water bodies. It is bordered by Raymond and Gray to the north, Westbrook and Falmouth to the south, Gorham to the west, and Cumberland and North Yarmouth to the east. Major geographical features include the northwestern shore of Sebago Lake, the entirety of Little Sebago Lake, and the Presumpscot River, which flows from Sebago Lake through the town. The landscape is a mix of residential developments, commercial corridors along U.S. Route 302, and extensive conserved forestland.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 18,434. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with growing diversity. The median household income has historically been above the state average, reflecting its suburban character. Population growth has been steady, driven by its proximity to employment centers in Portland and Westbrook. The town is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area.
Economy
Windham's economy is diverse, with a strong base in retail, healthcare, and professional services. Major employers include the Windham Mall retail plaza, Hannaford distribution and corporate offices, and several manufacturing firms. The tourism and recreation sector is significant, centered on Sebago Lake and related activities like boating and fishing, supported by marinas, campgrounds, and restaurants. The Windham Economic Development Corporation works to attract and retain business investment in the community.
Government
Windham operates under a Council–manager government system. Legislative authority is vested in a seven-member Town Council, which sets policy and appoints a professional Town manager to oversee daily operations. The town provides full municipal services, including a dedicated Police Department and Fire Department. Voters participate in local elections and the annual Town meeting to decide on the budget and major ordinances. The town is represented in the Maine Legislature within several districts.
Education
Public education is administered by Regional School Unit 14, which operates Windham High School, Windham Middle School, and several elementary schools including Manchester School and Windham Primary School. The district has a partnership with the University of Southern Maine for advanced placement programs. Private options include Saint Joseph's College of Maine, located just over the border in Standish. The town is also served by the Windham Public Library.
Notable people
Notable individuals associated with the town include John A. Milliken, a Union Army officer and Medal of Honor recipient; actress and singer Dorothy Stickney; NBA player and coach Rick Carlisle; and Major League Baseball pitcher Bob Stanley. Famed horror author Stephen King has referenced the town and its locales in several works, including the novella "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption."
Category:Towns in Cumberland County, Maine Category:Towns in Maine Category:1737 establishments in Maine