Скачать или смотреть Driving Through Standish, Maine

Standish, Maine, is a charming town located in Cumberland County, nestled in the southwestern part of the state. With its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and strong sense of community, Standish represents the quintessential New England town. It’s a place where the past and present seamlessly blend, offering both residents and visitors a unique experience that highlights the beauty of Maine’s rural environment.
Historical Background

Standish’s history dates back to the early 18th century, when it was first settled by European colonists. The area was originally part of a larger tract of land known as Pearsontown, which was granted to Captain Moses Pearson and his men for their service in the French and Indian Wars. In 1750, the town was incorporated as Standish, named after Captain Myles Standish, the military leader of the Plymouth Colony.

Standish’s growth continued steadily through the 19th century, with the establishment of mills, schools, and churches. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s further spurred the town’s development, making it easier to transport agricultural products and other goods to larger markets. Despite these advancements, Standish has managed to retain much of its rural character, a testament to its deep-rooted connection to the land and its history.
Geography and Natural Beauty

Standish is located approximately 20 miles west of Portland, Maine’s largest city, and is part of the Greater Portland metropolitan area. The town covers a total area of about 80 square miles, making it one of the largest towns in Cumberland County by land area. Standish is bordered by several other towns, including Gorham to the east, Windham to the northeast, and Sebago to the northwest.

In addition to Sebago Lake, Standish is home to several other bodies of water, including Watchic Lake, Little Watchic Pond, and the Saco River. These natural features provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. The Saco River, in particular, is a significant part of the town’s landscape, offering picturesque views and a habitat for various wildlife species.

The terrain in Standish is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and open fields. This diverse landscape not only adds to the town’s scenic charm but also supports a wide range of plant and animal life. Standish is a place where residents and visitors can experience the tranquility of nature while still being within easy reach of urban amenities.
Community and Culture

Standish is a close-knit community with a population of approximately 10,000 residents. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, where neighbors know each other by name, and community events are well-attended. This strong sense of community is one of Standish’s most defining characteristics, and it plays a significant role in the town’s cultural life.


In addition to its annual events, Standish is home to several cultural and historical institutions that preserve and promote the town’s rich history. The Standish Historical Society, for example, operates the Old Red Church, a historic building dating back to 1804. The church is one of the oldest surviving structures in Standish and serves as a museum and meeting space for the Historical Society.
The town is also home to Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, a private liberal arts college located on the shores of Sebago Lake. The college is an integral part of the Standish community, offering educational opportunities and cultural events that are open to residents and visitors alike. The presence of the college adds a youthful energy to the town and provides a link between Standish and the broader academic world.

The town’s proximity to Portland also makes it an attractive place for those who work in the city but prefer to live in a more rural setting.
Education is a priority in Standish, with a focus on providing quality educational opportunities for students of all ages. The town is part of Regional School Unit 6 (RSU 6), which serves the communities of Standish, Buxton, Hollis, Limington, and Frye Island. RSU 6 operates several schools within the district, including George E. Jack Elementary School, Edna Libby Elementary School, and Bonny Eagle High School, which serves students from multiple towns in the area.

In addition to public schools, Standish is home to Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, a Catholic liberal arts college that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields.
Standish is well-connected by road, with several major routes passing through or near the town. Route 25 is the main highway that runs through Standish, providing direct access to Portland to the east and New Hampshire to the west. Route 35 and Route 114 also pass through Standish, connecting it to other parts of the Lakes Region and southern Maine.