Our Communities

Albion

Albion, Maine, population 2041, remains a typical Maine small town. Founded in 1804, its proud history boasts ties to Elijah Lovejoy, freedom of the press and Maine’s narrow gauge railway. Its central village, excellent elementary school, library and health center provide focus on family and have attracted new homes in the traditionally farming community. With proximity to the greater Waterville area, it has ideal small business potential as demonstrated by the growth of Johnny’s Selected Seeds.

Albion Website

Albion Members

Belgrade

Where Memories Last a Lifetime

Just ten miles west of the City of Waterville is the beautiful region known as the Belgrade Lakes Region. The town of Belgrade, Maine was incorporated in 1796 as the 102nd town of the Province of Maine in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The name was chosen by John Vassal Davis who admired Belgrade, Yugoslavia, when he visited there as a representative of the East India Company. By the late 1880s, the region was discovered by vacationers and by the early 1900s, large numbers of tourists arrived by steam train.

Today tourists still enjoy the breath-taking beauty of this magnificent region. The Belgrade Lakes Region include the towns and villages of Belgrade, Belgrade Lakes, North Belgrade, Smithfield, and parts of Rome, Sidney, and Oakland; and, as it was some eighty years ago, is still a most popular place to visit, vacation, or live. Great Pond, the largest of the lakes in the region, was the inspiration for the play and movie “On Golden Pond.”

Belgrade Website

Belgrade Members

Benton

Benton, Maine is located on the east bank of the Kennebec River, across the three bridges from Fairfield. The area was first settled in 1763 and incorporated as Sebasticook on March 16, 1842. The name was changed to Benton in 1850. With a park and walking trails, Benton offers the pleasant feeling of small town closeness combined with easy access to all the benefits of the total mid-Maine community.

Benton Website

Benton Members

Burnham

Burnham is located on the Sebasticook River on Routes 11 and 100. Burnham was originally called Twenty-Five Mile Plantation. The town was incorporated in 1824. Burnham is a versatile community offering recreational opportunities, including an excellent golf course on the shores of Lake Winnecook, and is home to major industries such as Pride Manufacturing Company.

Burnham Website

Burnham Members

China

The Town of China is a picturesque community with a short commute to both the State capital of Augusta and to the Winslow/Waterville area. Route 3 also gives China residents easy access to Maine’s beautiful coast.

The town of China is comprised of four community villages: China Village, South China, Weeks Mills, and Branch Mills.

China businesses are ready when residents and visitors gear up for outdoor fun in all seasons with four bodies of water: China Lake, Three Mile Pond, Branch Pond, and the Sheepscot River. It is a peaceful area with scenic hills, farms, ponds and streams. China Lake boasts excellent fishing, including landlocked salmon, small mouth bass and white perch. China Primary and Middle Schools are a vibrant community of learners. The quality of education in China rests on a strong foundation of talented and dedicated staff; a history of innovation and the desire to constantly improve teaching; and an engaged and supportive community. China is also home to Erskine Academy, a private high school provides a supportive and engaging learning environment with high expectations for student achievement.

The China community nurtures local businesses and are actively supporting the process of creating. As we support local business, we support the future of our community.

China Website

China Members

Clinton

Clinton, Maine, located five miles north of Fairfield, is bounded on the west by the Kennebec River and on the east by the Sebasticook River. The town was first settled in 1775 and incorporated in 1795. Because of the Clinton I-95 interchange, the town is attractive to industrial development. Clinton is a diversified mid-Maine community with pleasant residential areas, beautiful rural land, small fabrication factories, the largest dairy industry of the state, and Maine’s premier nine-hole golf course. Clinton is home to the extremely popular annual Clinton Lion’s Club Agricultural Fair.

Clinton Website

Clinton Members

Fairfield

First settled in 1771, the Town of Fairfield, Maine has some of the most beautiful historic sites recorded in the National Historic Register. The Cotton-Smith History House and Museum is located at 42 High Street, and is home to the Fairfield Historical Society. Other architectural jewels include the Lawrence Public Library, Connor-Bovie House, and the Amos Gerald House.

Fairfield (pop. 6,700) is known as an important crossroads and is the point of intersection of two of the largest transportation corridors in the state, U.S. Route 201 and Interstate 95. Fairfield is home to many thriving businesses, and with 55 square miles also contains large areas of developable land. The town has a substantial urban residential and historic downtown district and several quaint unincorporated villages that contribute to its charm and character.

Located in the Town of Fairfield is Kennebec Valley Community College, a regional institution of higher education that plays a pivotal role in training the central Maine workforce. Fairfield is a fine community in which to live and work, with all the recreational and cultural amenities the region affords.

Fairfield Website

Fairfield Members

Norridgewock

Norridgewock is a picturesque town nestled in the state of Maine, USA. Located along the banks of the Kennebec River, it boasts a charming small-town atmosphere with a rich historical heritage. Originally inhabited by the Abenaki Native American tribe, the area became known as Norridgewock in the mid-18th century when European settlers began to establish their presence. The town's history is deeply intertwined with the Native American and early American colonial influences, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. Today, Norridgewock offers visitors and residents a tranquil escape with its stunning natural beauty, including scenic river views, lush forests, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The community's warmth and genuine hospitality make it a welcoming place for visitors to explore, creating a delightful blend of history, nature, and small-town charm.

Norridgewock Website

Norridgewock Members

Oakland

Gateway to the Belgrade Lakes Region

Oakland, Maine is west of Waterville and abuts the Belgrade Lakes. Messalonskee Lake, East Pond, McGrath Pond and Salmon Lake provide four season opportunities for water activities. The Town is home to a number of summer camps for kids.

Incorporated in 1883, Oakland was home to industries drawing water power from Messalonskee Stream. Today, the Messalonskee Stream Trail and Pleasant Point Park across town, provide new roles for the waterside environment.

Oakland is a beautiful place to live and raise a family. Homes range from classic New England farms to attractive new styles in town and in the country. The town and region have some of the best public schools in the state, and fiscally careful town government. Oakland offers a full range of municipal services, including a library and a small museum.

Close to I-95, Oakland is the home of First Park, Maine’s Premier Technology Center. This high-tech park provides locations for the emerging businesses of the 21st century.

Oakland Website

Oakland Members

Rome

Rome, Maine is located in the heart of the Belgrade chain of lakes. There is fishing, sailing, swimming, and an array of winter lake activites such as ice fishing and snowmobiling to be enjoyed in any of the seven lakes of this 150-square mile lake region. A popular 40-mile canoe adventure takes paddlers through the lakes chain. Rome was first settled in 1780 and originally named West Pond Plantation. The town was incorporated in 1804. Rome is a delightful vacation spot and an attractive community in which to settle.

Rome Website

Rome Members

Sidney

Sidney, Maine is a fast-growing community noted for having one of the lower tax rates in Kennebec County. Surrounding the town to the east is the Kennebec River and to the west is Messalonskee Lake, where the headquarters for the famed New England Music Camp is located. The lake is also surrounded by summer resorts and cottage colonies. Both Messalonskee Lake and the Kennebec River have public boat access within their borders. Several other smaller ponds make up a beautiful rural setting.

Centrally located is the Town Office, Grange Hall, Transfer/Recycling Facility, and the Public Works Department. The James H. Bean School, K – 6 grade, has been recognized by the State of Maine as a leader in efficiency and education. The district is distinguished by having had two National Educator Milken Award winners, both from Sidney. Located in three strategic areas are the Town Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, serving the needs for all fire and rescue. Access to neighboring towns and cities, such as Waterville and Augusta, are Routes 23, 27, 104, and Interstate 95. I-95 makes this town a prime location for industries because of its own entrance and exit ramps.  The rest of the community is made up of farming, small business, and a rural atmosphere. Sidney is a great place to be.

Sidney Website

Sidney Members

Thorndike

The town of Thorndike, Maine was established in 1819. It is a quaint little village with a population of 712. Miles of winding rural roads capture breathtaking views. The small community is famously known for the “Gordon Hill Murders” that took place June 16, 1873. The courts handed down a guilty verdict and a sentence of hanging was carried out. Later a letter arrived claiming the wrong man was hanged; someone else committed these gruesome murders. Because of this trial, capital punishment was ended in the state of Maine. The area boasts a part in the Common Ground Country Fair. This organic educational fair brings crowds from states and miles around.

Thorndike Website

Thorndike Members

Unity

Unity is located on Routes 9 and 202 and was incorporated June 22, 1804. It is the home of Unity College, pictured above, which specializes in environmental sciences and outdoor recreation. The college has an art gallery, lecture and concert series, and an excellent library with a children’s loft, all of which are open to the public.

Unity is located on the shores of Lake Winnecook, a fine place to boat, fish, and swim. A public boat ramp and ample parking available gives easy access to the lake. Also located on the shores of Lake Winnecook is the ‘Field of Dreams’ Athletic Complex. The Complex has a walking path, several ball fields, picnic tables, and an excellent playground with all new equipment.

The Snowduster’s Snowmobile Club maintains several snowmobile trails throughout the town for winter fun. Unity is home to Unity Raceway, a local summer favorite of stock car fans, is located on Route 139 and is open from mid-spring to late fall. Every fall, the popular Common Ground Country Fair attracts thousands of people to witness and enjoy the delights of homemade ice cream and natural food. Unity’s attractions make it an all-seasons place to work and play.

Unity Website

Unity Members

Vassalboro

Vassalboro stretches from the east bank of the Kennebec River to the west shore of China Lake. It is the home of farmers, woodsmen, and commuters to Waterville and Augusta. Settled in 1760 and incorporated in 1771, Vassalboro is located on Routes 32 and 201. Vassalboro has frontage on a major river (the Kennebec) and on four lakes and ponds, resulting in outstanding recreational opportunities. Vassalboro is home to Duratherm Window Company, York Spiral Stair, and has some of the larger dairy farms in the central Maine area. It is also home of Natanis Golf Course, which was recently expanded to 36-holes, making the public golf course the largest north of Boston.

Vassalboro Website

Vassalboro Members

Waterville

The Heart of Central Maine

Located on the banks of the Kennebec River, Waterville, Maine is home to a unique mix of shops and restaurants as well as two colleges, Thomas College and Colby College. A Main Street Maine community, Waterville takes great pride in its downtown, which is home to seven structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to many unique shops and one-of-a-kind eateries. Waterville is easily accessed with two exits off Interstate 95 as well as Route 201, which touts a national, historic byway and is part of the Kennebec-Chaudiere Corridor.

Visitors to Waterville will enjoy numerous arts & cultural amenities, including the magnificent Waterville Opera House, Colby College Museum of Art, Redington Museum and Railroad Square Cinema. Waterville hosts a year round calendar of outstanding events, such as the Maine International Film Festival, Waterville Intown Arts Fest, Taste of Greater Waterville, and Downtown Waterville Farmers’ Market.

Shoppers will find a wide array of products, including upscale women’s clothing, home furnishings, jewelry, Maine-made products, toys and books, and much more. Dining options are equally as diverse, offering authentic Lebanese, southern creole and Mexican cuisines, Asian specialties, eclectic American fare, delicious pub food, and fresh seafood, not to mention great bagels, sandwiches and coffee.

Outdoor enthusiasts will delight over the miles of hiking trails located throughout the City and its neighboring communities, including the newly developed Quarry Road Trails which also provide cross country skiing in the winter months. The Kennebec River also offers spectacular fishing and boating opportunities.

Waterville Website

Waterville Members

Winslow

Located on the east bank of the Kennebec River across the bridge from Waterville, Winslow, Maine is a town rich in history and pride. Settlers arrived in the early 1700s and built their homes around the protective “Fort Halifax” on the confluence of the Sebasticook and Kennebec Rivers, major routes in transporting food, goods, and more settlers.

The Winslow Fort Halifax Blockhouse, formerly the nation’s oldest wooden structure of its type, was rebuilt from some of the timbers of the original Blockhouse that was swept down the Kennebec River by raging flood waters on April 1, 1987.

Winslow has a population of approximately 8,000 and provides excellent commercial, industrial, and residential opportunities. Johnny’s Selected Seeds, one of the world’s top rated seed catalog companies, is open for business on Benton Avenue in Winslow. Mid-State Machine Products, one of Maine’s largest manufacturers of specialty machinery is favorably located on Route 201. Growth and development of small independent craftsmen and manufacturing shops have been set up in the Kennebec River Development Park on the banks of the Kennebec.

A stable, council -manager government has operated under a Town Charter since 1969. Winslow has successfully maintained one of the more attractive property tax rates in the area and can boast an excellent educational system, outstanding athletic programs, and some of the finer recreational facilities in the state. Winslow is a warm, friendly, progressive community and an excellent place to call home.

Winslow Website

Winslow Members

Weeks Mills

Weeks Mills is a charming small town nestled in the picturesque countryside of Maine. With a population of just a few hundred residents, it exudes a tranquil and close-knit community atmosphere. The town is renowned for its idyllic natural surroundings, with rolling hills, lush forests, and serene bodies of water dotting the landscape. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking along scenic trails to fishing in the pristine lakes. The historic charm of Weeks Mills is evident in its well-preserved buildings and architecture, providing a glimpse into its rich past. The town's welcoming residents take pride in their local heritage, often hosting community events and festivals that celebrate their history and traditions. For those seeking a serene escape from the bustling city life, Weeks Mills offers a perfect retreat, where one can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience the warmth of a small-town community.

Weeks Mills Members

South China

South China, Maine, is a charming and picturesque town located in the central Maine. Nestled in Kennebec County, the community boasts a serene and idyllic setting, surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling lakes. The town's rich history is evident in its well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks, inviting visitors to take a step back in time. South China is a close-knit and friendly community, with residents who take pride in their strong sense of unity and hospitality. Nature lovers will find themselves in awe of the region's natural beauty, as it offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating on nearby China Lake. With its tranquil ambiance, warm community spirit, and abundant recreational options, South China, Maine, presents an appealing destination for both residents and visitors seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in the heart of nature.

South China Members

Hinckley

Hinckley is a charming town nestled in the heart of Maine's picturesque landscape. Located in Somerset County, this small community exudes a serene and rustic charm that appeals to both locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by dense forests, tranquil lakes, and rolling hills, Hinckley offers an idyllic retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The town's welcoming atmosphere is reflected in its friendly residents, who take pride in preserving their heritage and embracing a strong sense of community. While Hinckley may be a quaint and peaceful destination, it is by no means lacking in character. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and array of recreational opportunities, Hinckley captivates the hearts of those seeking a taste of authentic Maine life and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of modernity.

Hinckley Members

Shawmut

Shawmut, Maine, is a charming small town nestled in the heart of the state's central region. Rich in history and natural beauty, this picturesque community exudes a sense of tranquility and warmth that captivates both residents and visitors alike. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes, Shawmut boasts an abundance of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities. Whether it's hiking along scenic trails, fishing in pristine waters, or simply basking in the serenity of nature, the town offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Beyond its natural wonders, Shawmut embraces its heritage with pride, with charming colonial-style architecture and historic landmarks scattered throughout the area. The residents of Shawmut are known for their close-knit community spirit, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that makes every newcomer feel like family. For those seeking a tranquil retreat in a place that cherishes its past while embracing the beauty of the present, Shawmut, Maine, is undoubtedly a destination worth exploring.

Shawmut Members

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Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce
50 Elm Street
Waterville, ME 04901

207.873.3315

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