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History of Orrington, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Orrington, Maine, USA
Explore Orrington, Maine, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Orrington Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Orrington: Situated in Penobscot County, Orrington is a rural town along the Penobscot River. It’s known for its rich history, quiet neighborhoods, and access to outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking.
Orrington was originally part of Condustiegg or Kenduskeag Plantation, which also included the present-day cities of Bangor and Brewer. Orrington was incorporated as a town in 1788 with its major village at Brewer, then called "New Worcester". Bangor incorporated three years later in 1791. Brewer broke away from Orrington in 1812 to form a separate town.
The name "Orrington" reportedly resulted from a spelling mistake. The settlers intended to name it "Orangetown" after Orangetown, Maryland, but it was written on the record-books in distant Massachusetts, of which Maine was then a territory, as "Orrington"
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Discover Orrington: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Orrington
Orrington, Maine
Penobscot county. This is a fine township of land with a handsome village on the east side of Penobscot river, opposite to Hampden. The town has a good mill stream, and enjoys considerable navigable facilities. Population, 1837, 1,426. Wheat crop, same year, 2,340 bushels.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
Orrington, Maine
Penobscot county. This is a fine township of land with a handsome village on the east side of Penobscot river, opposite to Hampden. The town has a good mill stream, and enjoys considerable navigable facilities. Population, 1837, 1,426. Wheat crop, same year, 2,340 bushels.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
1906 - Orrington
Orrington, a post-village in Orrington township (town), Penobscot co., Me., on the E. bank of the Penobscot River and on the Maine Central R., 6 miles below Bangor, its banking point. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1266.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
Orrington, a post-village in Orrington township (town), Penobscot co., Me., on the E. bank of the Penobscot River and on the Maine Central R., 6 miles below Bangor, its banking point. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1266.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
Here's a list of some of the best places to visit and things to do in Orrington:
Leonard's Mills: This living history museum is a true gem in Orrington. It's a recreated 18th-century logging and milling community that offers a fascinating look into Maine's logging and milling history. Explore the historic buildings, watch demonstrations, and gain insight into the state's heritage.
Brewer Lake: Orrington is home to Brewer Lake, a serene and picturesque spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go fishing, kayaking, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Hiking Trails: Orrington and the surrounding areas offer some excellent hiking opportunities. Places like Pine Hill Trail and Orland River Day Park have well-maintained trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. The trails often lead to scenic viewpoints, making them great for nature lovers and photographers.
Penobscot River: Orrington is situated along the Penobscot River, and it's a... Read MORE...
Leonard's Mills: This living history museum is a true gem in Orrington. It's a recreated 18th-century logging and milling community that offers a fascinating look into Maine's logging and milling history. Explore the historic buildings, watch demonstrations, and gain insight into the state's heritage.
Brewer Lake: Orrington is home to Brewer Lake, a serene and picturesque spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go fishing, kayaking, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Hiking Trails: Orrington and the surrounding areas offer some excellent hiking opportunities. Places like Pine Hill Trail and Orland River Day Park have well-maintained trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. The trails often lead to scenic viewpoints, making them great for nature lovers and photographers.
Penobscot River: Orrington is situated along the Penobscot River, and it's a... Read MORE...
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Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Orrington, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 5 ancestors who were born or died in Orrington.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
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