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{{short description|City in Maine, United States}}
{{About|the Maine city|other areas|Presque Isle (disambiguation){{!}}Presque Isle}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2021}}
{{Infobox settlement {{Infobox settlement
|official_name = Presque Isle, Maine | name = Presque Isle, Maine
|settlement_type = ] | official_name =
|nickname = The Star City | settlement_type = ]
|motto = | nickname = The Star City
| motto = The Hub of Aroostook


<!-- Images -->| image_skyline = City_of_Presque_Isle,_Maine_Montage.jpg
<!-- Images -->
| imagesize =
|image_skyline = Fort Street, Presque Isle, ME.jpg
| image_caption = Clockwise, from top: Crown of Maine Balloon Fest in Presque Isle, Downtown, ], ] headquarters and museum, Nordic Heritage Center, Aroostook Centre Mall, UMPI ], Main Street
|imagesize =
|image_caption = Fort Street c. 1910 | image_flag =
|image_flag = | image_seal = Seal of Presque Isle, Maine.jpg
|image_seal = Seal of Presque Isle, Maine.png


<!-- Maps --> <!-- Maps -->| =
||pushpin_map =Maine | pushpin_map = USA Maine#USA
| pushpin_label = Presque Isle
|pushpin_label_position =left <!-- the position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none -->
| pushpin_label_position = left
|pushpin_map_caption =Location within the state of Maine
| pushpin_map_caption = Location
|pushpin_mapsize =
| pushpin_mapsize = +
|image_map =
| image_map = Aroostook County Maine incorporated and unincorporated areas Presque Isle highlighted.svg
|mapsize =
|map_caption = | mapsize = 250px
|image_map1 = | map_caption = Location of Presque Isle, Maine
|mapsize1 = | image_map1 =
|map_caption1 = | mapsize1 =
| map_caption1 = <!-- Location -->
| subdivision_type = ]
| subdivision_name = {{USA}}
| subdivision_type1 = ]
| subdivision_name1 = {{flag|Maine}}
| subdivision_type2 = ]
| subdivision_name2 = ]
| parts_type = Named places
| parts = Parkhurst<br />Spragueville
| government_footnotes =
| government_type =
| leader_title =
| leader_name =
| leader_title1 =
| leader_name1 =
| established_title = Incorporated (town)
| established_date = April 4, 1859
| established_title1 = Incorporated (city)
| established_date1 = January 1, 1940


<!-- Area -->| unit_pref = Imperial
<!-- Location -->
| area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2020">{{cite web|title=2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2020_Gazetteer/2020_gaz_place_23.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=April 8, 2022}}</ref>
|subdivision_type = ]
| area_magnitude =
|subdivision_name = {{USA}}
| area_total_km2 = 200.99
|subdivision_type1 = ]
| area_land_km2 = 196.27
|subdivision_name1 = ] ]
| area_water_km2 = 4.72
|subdivision_type2 = ]
| area_total_sq_mi = 77.60
|subdivision_name2 =<!-- Image with inadequate rationale removed: ] -->]
| area_land_sq_mi = 75.78
|government_footnotes =
| area_water_sq_mi = 1.82
|government_type =
|leader_title =
|leader_name =
|leader_title1 =
|leader_name1 =
|established_title = Incorporated (town)
|established_date = April 4, ]
|established_title1 = Incorporated (city)
|established_date1 = January 1, 1940


<!-- Population -->| population_as_of = ]
<!-- Area -->
| population_est =
|unit_pref = Imperial
|area_footnotes = | pop_est_as_of =
| population_footnotes =
|area_magnitude =
| population_total = 8797
|area_total_km2 = 200.9
| population_density_km2 = 44.82
|area_land_km2 = 196.2
| population_density_sq_mi = 116.09
|area_water_km2 = 4.7
|area_total_sq_mi = 77.5
|area_land_sq_mi = 75.7
|area_water_sq_mi = 1.8


<!-- General information -->| timezone = ]
<!-- Population -->
| utc_offset = &minus;5
|population_as_of = ]
|population_footnotes = | timezone_DST = EDT
| utc_offset_DST = &minus;4
|population_total = 9692
| elevation_footnotes =
|population_density_km2 = 48.2
| elevation_m = 139
|population_density_sq_mi = 125.1
| elevation_ft = 456

| coordinates = {{coord|46|40|46|N|68|0|8|W|region:US-ME_type:city|display=inline,title}}
<!-- General information -->
| postal_code_type = ]
|timezone = ]
|utc_offset = -5 | postal_code = 04769
|timezone_DST = EDT | area_code = ]
| blank_name = ]
|utc_offset_DST = -4
|elevation_footnotes = | blank_info = 23-60825
| blank1_name = ] feature ID
|elevation_m = 139
|elevation_ft = 456 | blank1_info = 0573790
| website =
|coordinates_display = inline,title
| population_demonym = Presqueillian
|coordinates_type = region:US_type:city
|latd = 46 |latm = 40 |lats = 46 |latNS = N | footnotes =
| pop_est_footnotes =
|longd = 68 |longm = 0 |longs = 8 |longEW = W

<!-- Area/postal codes & others -->
|postal_code_type = ]
|postal_code = 04769
|area_code = ]
|blank_name = ]
|blank_info = 23-60825
|blank1_name = ] feature ID
|blank1_info = 0573790
|blank2_name = Airport
|blank2_info = ]{{–}} PQI (County)
|website =
|footnotes =
}} }}
'''Presque Isle''' is the commercial center and largest city in the sparsely populated ], ], ]. The population was 9,692 at the ]. The city is home to the ], Northern Maine Community College, Northern Maine Fairgrounds, The Aroostook Centre Mall, and the ]. '''Presque Isle''' ({{IPAc-en|p|r|ɛ|s|k}} {{respell|PRESK}}) is the commercial center and largest city in ], United States. The population was 8,797 at the ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Census - Geography Profile: Presque Isle city, Maine |url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=1600000US2360825|access-date=January 8, 2022}}</ref> The city is home to the ], ], Northern Maine Fairgrounds, the ], and the ].

Presque Isle is the headquarters of the ], a ].<ref> ''National Congress of American Indians.'' Retrieved May 1, 2013.</ref>


==History== ==History==
]
Originally known as Fairbanks for its founder Dennis Fairbanks, it was settled in 1828 in land that was unknown to be Canadian or American. The ] broke out in 1838 because of boundary disputes with ], which were resolved in 1842 by the ]. The township was incorporated from Plantations F, G and H on April 4, 1859 as Presque Isle, the ] term for ] (''presqu'île''), as the courses of the ] and Presque Isle Stream form a peninsula here. The name derives from the ] phrase for 'almost an island.' <ref name="Varney 1886">{{Citation
The first European settlers were British ] who reached the area in 1819 hoping to obtain land for lumber. Border disputes between the United States and the ] over the area, however, made it impossible for pioneers to gain title to the land. In response, the government of the neighboring British colony of ] (now a Canadian province) gave out patents for pioneers to live on the land but not claim ownership or sell it. By 1825, surveyors traveling along the ] noted that twenty families lived along it and noted that while agriculture was present, all of the families employed most of their time towards wood production.<ref name="History of Presque Isle">{{Cite web |last=Sebold |first=Kimberly |title=History of Presque Isle |url=http://presqueisle.mainememory.net/page/301/display.html |access-date=May 14, 2015 |website=Presque Isle Maine Memory |publisher=Presque Isle Historical Society}}</ref>
| last = Varney
| first = George J.
| title = Gazetteer of the state of Maine. Presque Isle
| place = Boston
| publisher = Russell
| year = 1886
| url = http://history.rays-place.com/me/aroostook-3a.htm }}</ref>


The boundary dispute slowed development in the area, but the government of ], which governed the territory at the time, saw the territory as theirs and encouraged the development of settlements in northern Maine by offering land grants and mill privileges in the 1820s. The first American to settle in the area was ] in 1828 who gained ownership over the land under the provisions set up by Massachusetts and later Maine, which gained statehood in 1820.<ref name="History of Presque Isle" />
The first industry to form in Presque Isle was the lumber industry. However, during the last 30 years of the 19th century, agriculture became important, and the entire county became noted for its production of ]es. On October 9, 1851, the first Northern Maine Fair exhibition opened. In 1881 the New Brunswick Railroad created the first rail connection in Presque Isle. In 1883, the town of Maysville was annexed. The ] arrived in 1895, opening the area for further development. Industries included two ]s, a ], a ] ] mill, a ] factory, a ] factory and a ] factory. The community became the ], ] and tourist center of the Aroostook valley.<ref name="Varney 1886"/> In 1903, the Aroostook State ] was founded, which in 1968 would be renamed the ]. On January 1, 1940, Presque Isle was incorporated as a city.


=== Name and incorporation ===
The Presque Isle Air Force Base, in operation between 1941 and 1961, was a major departure point for U.S. fighter planes during ] and the ] due to its relative proximity to Europe. The former base is now the ] and the Skyway Industrial Park. Presque Isle was named an "All American City" in 1966.
Originally known as Fairbanks for its founder Dennis Fairbanks, Presque Isle was settled in 1828 on land that was unknown to be part of ] (Canada) or the United States. The ] broke out in 1838 because of boundary disputes between the two countries, which were resolved in 1842 by the ]. The township was incorporated from Plantations F, G and H on April 4, 1859, as Presque Isle, derived from the ] term for ] (''presqu'île''), as the courses of the ] and Presque Isle Stream form a peninsula. In 1864, ] was established in the south of Presque Isle to accommodate Union soldiers returning from the Civil War. In 1883, the town of ] was annexed.


On January 1, 1940, Presque Isle was incorporated as a city.

=== Industry, agriculture and transportation ===

====Lumbering and early industries====
The first industry to form in Presque Isle was the lumber industry. By the 1880s, industry included two ]s, a ], a ] ] mill, a ] factory, a ] factory and a ] factory.

====Agriculture====
During the last 30 years of the 19th century, agriculture became important, and the entire county became noted for its production of ]es. On October 9, 1851, the first Northern Maine Fair exhibition opened. A starch factory was opened in 1874, providing a ready market for local potatoes.<ref name="Sebold">{{Cite web |last=Sebold |first=Kim |title=History of Presque Isle |url=http://presqueisle.mainememory.net/page/301/display.html |access-date=May 28, 2014 |website=Maine Memory Network}}</ref> In 1914 the ] was purchased as a Maine Agricultural Experiment Station.<ref name="Smith 1980">{{Cite book |last=Smith |first=David C. |title=A History of the Maine Agricultural Experiment Station 1885-1978 |date=1980 |publisher=University of Maine |location=Orono, ME |pages=196–197}}</ref>

====Railroad====
In 1881, the ] created the first rail connection in Presque Isle. The ] arrived in 1895.

====Airport====
A small airport was established in 1931. It was expanded within the decade and later assumed major military importance. The ], in operation between 1941 and 1961, was a major departure point for U.S. fighter planes during ] and the ] due to its relative proximity to Europe. When the base was sold, a piece of it became the Northern Maine Regional Airport. In June 2018, the Northern Maine Regional Airport was renamed ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Name of Northern Maine Regional Airport changing |url=http://www.wagmtv.com/content/news/Name-of-Northern-Maine-Regional-Airport-changing-486745141.html |access-date=September 3, 2018 |website=WAGM|date=June 27, 2018 }}</ref>

Beginning on July 2, 2018, ] began service from the Presque Isle International Airport in Presque Isle, Maine to ] in ].<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.wabi.tv/content/news/United-Airlines-open-for-business-in--487144081.html | title=United Airlines open for business in Presque Isle | date=July 2, 2018 }}</ref> These flights are federally subsidized through the ] (EAS) program, and are operated by United Express carrier, ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gojetairlines.com/ |title=Home |website=gojetairlines.com}}</ref>

On 4 June 2024, the US Dept. of Transportation awarded Jet Blue its first ever essential air service contract to replace United Airlines at Presque Isle. The service will be less frequent, but offer more capacity to Boston Logan, than the previous service offered to Newark Liberty International.

=== Colleges and universities ===
]
In 1903, the Aroostook State ] began offering a two-year teacher preparation program. In 1968, it was renamed the ]. Northern Maine Technical College was established in 1961, now ].<ref name="NMCC">{{Cite web |title=About NMCC |url=http://www.nmcc.edu/pages/nmcc/about-nmcc.php |access-date=February 21, 2013 |website=Northern Maine Community College |publisher=NMCC}}</ref> The first students entered the college in 1963. Today it serves about 2000 students.<ref name=NMCC />

=== Hospitals ===
The first Presque Isle Hospital was established on April 8, 1912.<ref name="Hospital 1984">{{Cite book |last=Dean |first=Marilyn |title=A History of Presque Isle's Hospital |publisher=The Aroostook Medical Center |year=1984 |location=Presque Isle, ME}}</ref> Four physicians were affiliated with the hospital, whose dual aims were to serve the community and to provide a training school for nurses.<ref name="Hospital 1984" /> The building was a white-frame structure, enlarged from a home under construction. The need and demand for the hospital increased so rapidly that in 1921 a new three-story brick hospital was dedicated.<ref name="Hospital 1984" /> This hospital was in operation for nearly four decades, when it, too, proved inadequate. A major fundraising campaign was launched in the late 1950s. After a large donation was given by Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Wildes, the daughter of the late ], the Arthur R. Gould Memorial Hospital was constructed and opened in 1960.<ref name="Hospital 1984" /> The hospital has expanded and been modernized in recent years, and in 1981 became part of ].<ref name="Hospital 1984" />

=== The Double Eagle II ===
] ]

On August 11, 1978, the '']'' was launched from a Presque Isle field carrying three passengers. It made the first successful ] ] crossing. In honor of the ''Double Eagle II'', the city holds an annual celebration called The Crown of Maine Balloon Festival. The popular event includes balloon rides, plane tours, amateur photo contests and children’s fair rides. Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and other local organizations, it is held in late August. The field from which the ''Double Eagle II'' lifted off now features a commemorative model balloon.<ref></ref>
On August 11, 1978, the '']'' was launched from a Presque Isle field carrying three passengers. It made the first successful ] ] crossing. In honor of the ''Double Eagle II'', the city holds an annual celebration called The Crown of Maine Balloon Festival. The popular event includes balloon rides, plane tours, amateur photo contests and children's fair rides. Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and other local organizations, it is held in late August. The field from which the ''Double Eagle II'' lifted off now features a commemorative model balloon.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110101184040/http://www.visitmaine.com/region/aroostook/presque_isle/ |date=January 1, 2011 }}</ref>

=== All American City ===
Presque Isle was named an ] in 1966.

=== Historic images ===


<gallery> <gallery>
File:Potato harvesting, Presque Isle, ME.jpg|Potato harvesting in 1909 File:Potatoeing, Presque Isle, ME.jpg|Potato harvesting in 1909
File:Greenlaw Block, Presque Isle, ME.jpg|Greenlaw Block c. 1912 File:Greenlaw Block, Presque Isle, ME.jpg|Greenlaw Block {{circa|1912}}
File:Perry Building, Presque Isle, ME.jpg|Old opera house c. 1912 File:Perry Building, Presque Isle, ME.jpg|Old opera house {{circa|1912}}
File:Presque Isle Hospital. Maine mid 1910s.jpg|Presque Isle General Hospital, mid-1910s
File:House of Seven Gables Presque Isle Maine.jpg|
</gallery> </gallery>


==Geography and climate== ==Geography and climate==
Presque Isle is located at {{coord|46|40|46|N|68|0|8|W|city}} (46.679321, -68.002166){{GR|1}}. Presque Isle is located at {{coord|46|40|46|N|68|0|8|W|type:city}} (46.679321, −68.002166).<ref name="GR1">{{Cite web |date=February 12, 2011 |title=US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990 |url=https://www.census.gov/geographies/reference-files/time-series/geo/gazetteer-files.html |access-date=April 23, 2011 |publisher=]}}</ref>


According to the ], the city has a total area of 77.6&nbsp;square miles (200.9&nbsp;km²), of which, 75.8&nbsp;square miles (196.2&nbsp;km²) of it is land and 1.8&nbsp;square miles (4.7&nbsp;km²) of it (2.32%) is water. Presque Isle is drained by the ] and Presque Isle Stream. According to the ], the city has a total area of {{convert|77.60|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, of which {{convert|75.76|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is land and {{convert|1.84|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is water.<ref name="Gazetteer files">{{Cite web |title=US Gazetteer files 2010 |url=https://www.census.gov/geo/www/gazetteer/files/Gaz_places_national.txt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120702145235/http://www.census.gov/geo/www/gazetteer/files/Gaz_places_national.txt |archive-date=July 2, 2012 |access-date=November 23, 2012 |publisher=]}}</ref> Presque Isle is drained by the ] and Presque Isle Stream (also called Prestile Stream).


Presque Isle has a ] typified with long cold winters and short warm summers. Presque Isle has a ] (]: Dfb) typified by long cold winters and short warm summers.

Presque Isle is the driest city in Maine, with an annual precipitation of {{Cvt|38.5|in|mm|abbr=on}}. <ref>{{cite web |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |title=NOAA's 1981–2010 Climate Normals |url=http://www.currentresults.com/Weather/Maine/average-yearly-precipitation.php}}</ref>


{{Weather box {{Weather box
|location = Presque Isle, Maine |location = Presque Isle, Maine (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1893–present)
|single line = y |single line = y
|Jan record high F = 55 |Jan record high F = 55
|Feb record high F = 59 |Feb record high F = 59
|Mar record high F = 74 |Mar record high F = 76
|Apr record high F = 84 |Apr record high F = 85
|May record high F = 94 |May record high F = 94
|Jun record high F = 95 |Jun record high F = 95
|Jul record high F = 96 |Jul record high F = 99
|Aug record high F = 99 |Aug record high F = 99
|Sep record high F = 90 |Sep record high F = 91
|Oct record high F = 84 |Oct record high F = 84
|Nov record high F = 70 |Nov record high F = 70
|Dec record high F = 57 |Dec record high F = 57
|year record high F = 99 |year record high F = 99
|Jan high F = 20.7 |Jan avg record high F = 44.0
|Feb high F = 25 |Feb avg record high F = 41.8
|Mar high F = 35.6 |Mar avg record high F = 51.4
|Apr high F = 48.3 |Apr avg record high F = 69.0
|May high F = 64.3 |May avg record high F = 81.9
|Jun high F = 73.2 |Jun avg record high F = 87.1
|Jul high F = 77.2 |Jul avg record high F = 88.6
|Aug high F = 75.6 |Aug avg record high F = 87.5
|Sep high F = 65.9 |Sep avg record high F = 82.7
|Oct high F = 52.9 |Oct avg record high F = 72.0
|Nov high F = 38.3 |Nov avg record high F = 59.7
|Dec high F = 25.9 |Dec avg record high F = 47.2
|year high F = 50.2 |year avg record high F = 90.8
|Jan low F = 1.2 |Jan high F = 22.3
|Feb low F = 4.7 |Feb high F = 25.9
|Mar low F = 16.2 |Mar high F = 35.7
|Apr low F = 29 |Apr high F = 49.6
|May low F = 40.6 |May high F = 65.2
|Jun low F = 49.8 |Jun high F = 73.7
|Jul low F = 55.1 |Jul high F = 78.5
|Aug low F = 53.1 |Aug high F = 77.3
|Sep low F = 44.6 |Sep high F = 69.1
|Oct low F = 34.9 |Oct high F = 54.5
|Nov low F = 24.7 |Nov high F = 40.0
|Dec low F = 9.3 |Dec high F = 28.2
|year low F = 30.3 |year high F = 51.7
|Jan record low F = -35 |Jan mean F = 12.8
|Feb record low F = -37 |Feb mean F = 15.6
|Mar record low F = -30 |Mar mean F = 25.9
|Apr record low F = -3 |Apr mean F = 39.5
|May mean F = 53.2
|Jun mean F = 62.0
|Jul mean F = 67.4
|Aug mean F = 65.9
|Sep mean F = 58.0
|Oct mean F = 45.4
|Nov mean F = 33.0
|Dec mean F = 20.4
|year mean F = 41.6
|Jan low F = 3.3
|Feb low F = 5.3
|Mar low F = 16.0
|Apr low F = 29.3
|May low F = 41.3
|Jun low F = 50.4
|Jul low F = 56.3
|Aug low F = 54.5
|Sep low F = 46.8
|Oct low F = 36.3
|Nov low F = 26.0
|Dec low F = 12.5
|year low F = 31.5
|Jan avg record low F = -21.2
|Feb avg record low F = -17.0
|Mar avg record low F = -9.3
|Apr avg record low F = 13.5
|May avg record low F = 28.4
|Jun avg record low F = 36.5
|Jul avg record low F = 44.3
|Aug avg record low F = 40.7
|Sep avg record low F = 29.8
|Oct avg record low F = 21.0
|Nov avg record low F = 6.7
|Dec avg record low F = -11.8
|year avg record low F = -23.7
|Jan record low F = −41
|Feb record low F = −37
|Mar record low F = −30
|Apr record low F = −5
|May record low F = 16 |May record low F = 16
|Jun record low F = 26 |Jun record low F = 25
|Jul record low F = 35 |Jul record low F = 35
|Aug record low F = 29 |Aug record low F = 29
|Sep record low F = 21 |Sep record low F = 15
|Oct record low F = 15 |Oct record low F = 8
|Nov record low F = -15 |Nov record low F = −15
|Dec record low F = -33 |Dec record low F = −35
|year record low F = -37 |year record low F = −41
|Jan precipitation inch = 2.55 |precipitation colour = green
|Feb precipitation inch = 1.68 |Jan precipitation inch = 2.53
|Mar precipitation inch = 2.12 |Feb precipitation inch = 1.92
|Apr precipitation inch = 2.35 |Mar precipitation inch = 2.35
|May precipitation inch = 3.44 |Apr precipitation inch = 2.79
|Jun precipitation inch = 3.43 |May precipitation inch = 3.29
|Jul precipitation inch = 3.71 |Jun precipitation inch = 3.81
|Aug precipitation inch = 3.94 |Jul precipitation inch = 3.66
|Sep precipitation inch = 3.44 |Aug precipitation inch = 3.81
|Oct precipitation inch = 3.28 |Sep precipitation inch = 3.51
|Nov precipitation inch = 2.77 |Oct precipitation inch = 4.16
|Dec precipitation inch = 2.56 |Nov precipitation inch = 3.06
|year precipitation inch = 35.27 |Dec precipitation inch = 3.16
|Jan snow inch = 18.9 |year precipitation inch = 38.05
|Feb snow inch = 17.8 |Jan snow inch = 21.1
|Mar snow inch = 17.3 |Feb snow inch = 21.7
|Apr snow inch = 7.3 |Mar snow inch = 19.0
|Apr snow inch = 6.3
|May snow inch = 0.2 |May snow inch = 0.2
|Jun snow inch = 0 |Jun snow inch = 0.0
|Jul snow inch = 0 |Jul snow inch = 0.0
|Aug snow inch = 0 |Aug snow inch = 0.0
|Sep snow inch = 0.1 |Sep snow inch = 0.2
|Oct snow inch = 0.6 |Oct snow inch = 1.2
|Nov snow inch = 8.8 |Nov snow inch = 6.1
|Dec snow inch = 17.7 |Dec snow inch = 21.7
|year snow inch = 88.7 |year snow inch = 97.5
|Jan snow depth inch = 19.6
|Feb snow depth inch = 25.2
|Mar snow depth inch = 24.7
|Apr snow depth inch = 10.0
|May snow depth inch = 0.0
|Jun snow depth inch = 0.0
|Jul snow depth inch = 0.0
|Aug snow depth inch = 0.0
|Sep snow depth inch = 0.0
|Oct snow depth inch = 0.6
|Nov snow depth inch = 3.8
|Dec snow depth inch = 10.6
|year snow depth inch = 25.6
|unit precipitation days = 0.01 in |unit precipitation days = 0.01 in
|unit snow days = 0.1 in
|Jan precipitation days = 11.0 |Jan precipitation days = 11.0
|Feb precipitation days = 7.8 |Feb precipitation days = 8.1
|Mar precipitation days = 9.7 |Mar precipitation days = 9.7
|Apr precipitation days = 10.8 |Apr precipitation days = 11.5
|May precipitation days = 12.6 |May precipitation days = 12.7
|Jun precipitation days = 12.2 |Jun precipitation days = 13.0
|Jul precipitation days = 12.9 |Jul precipitation days = 14.0
|Aug precipitation days = 11.8 |Aug precipitation days = 11.5
|Sep precipitation days = 11.4 |Sep precipitation days = 10.3
|Oct precipitation days = 12.2 |Oct precipitation days = 12.9
|Nov precipitation days = 11.8 |Nov precipitation days = 11.1
|Dec precipitation days = 11.3 |Dec precipitation days = 11.2
|year precipitation days = 135.5 |year precipitation days = 137.0
|Jan snow days = 7.6 |unit snow days = 0.1 in
|Feb snow days = 5.6 |Jan snow days = 9.0
|Mar snow days = 5.0 |Feb snow days = 6.7
|Apr snow days = 2.3 |Mar snow days = 6.0
|Apr snow days = 2.1
|May snow days = 0.2 |May snow days = 0.2
|Jun snow days = 0 |Jun snow days = 0.0
|Jul snow days = 0 |Jul snow days = 0.0
|Aug snow days = 0 |Aug snow days = 0.0
|Sep snow days = 0 |Sep snow days = 0.0
|Oct snow days = 0.4 |Oct snow days = 0.4
|Nov snow days = 3.0 |Nov snow days = 3.1
|Dec snow days = 6.4 |Dec snow days = 7.3
|year snow days = 30.5 |year snow days = 34.8
| Jan humidity =92
|source 1 = NOAA <ref name= NCDC >{{cite web
| Feb humidity =92
| url = http://cdo.ncdc.noaa.gov/climatenormals/clim20/me/176937.pdf
| Mar humidity =93
| title = NCDC: U.S. Climate Normals
| Apr humidity =86
| accessdate = 2010-11-30
| May humidity =75
| publisher = ] }}</ref>
| Jun humidity =78
| Jul humidity =78
| Aug humidity =80
| Sep humidity =80
| Oct humidity =82
| Nov humidity =82
| Dec humidity =89
| year humidity =
| Jand sun =2.6
| Febd sun =2.1
| Mard sun =3.2
| Aprd sun =5.4
| Mayd sun =7.4
| Jund sun =8.2
| Juld sun =9.4
| Augd sun =9.5
| Sepd sun =7.3
| Octd sun =5.5
| Novd sun =4.0
| Decd sun =3.1
| yeard sun =
| Jan light = 9.1
| Feb light = 10.4
| Mar light = 12.0
| Apr light = 13.6
| May light = 15.1
| Jun light = 15.8
| Jul light = 15.4
| Aug light = 14.1
| Sep light = 12.5
| Oct light = 10.9
| Nov light = 9.4
| Dec light = 8.6
| year light=
| Jan uv =1
| Feb uv =1
| Mar uv =1
| Apr uv =2
| May uv =4
| Jun uv =5
| Jul uv =5
| Aug uv =4
| Sep uv =3
| Oct uv =2
| Nov uv =1
| Dec uv =1
| year uv =
|source 1 = ]<ref name="NOAA">{{Cite web |title=NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data |url=https://www.weather.gov/wrh/climate?wfo=car |access-date=May 23, 2021 |publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration}}</ref><ref name="NOAAtxt">{{Cite web |title=Station: Presque Isle, ME |url=https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/services/data/v1?dataset=normals-monthly-1991-2020&startDate=0001-01-01&endDate=9996-12-31&stations=USC00176937&format=pdf |access-date=May 23, 2021 |website=U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020) |publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration}}</ref>
|source 2 = Weather Atlas (UV and humidity)<ref>{{cite web
| url = https://www.weather-atlas.com/en/maine-usa/presque-isle-climate
| title = Climate and monthly weather forecast Presque Isle, ME
| access-date = August 18, 2022}}</ref>
|date=March 2011}} |date=March 2011}}

==Government==
The City of Presque Isle operates under the ] form of government. The current city manager is Martin Puckett.


==Demographics== ==Demographics==
{{US Census population
{{USCensusPop
| 1860= 723 |1860= 723
| 1870= 970 |1870= 970
| 1880= 1305 |1880= 1305
| 1890= 3046 |1890= 3046
| 1900= 3804 |1900= 3804
| 1910= 5179 |1910= 5179
| 1920= 5581 |1920= 5581
| 1930= 6965 |1930= 6965
| 1940= 7939 |1940= 7939
| 1950= 9954 |1950= 9954
| 1960= 12886 |1960= 12886
| 1970= 11452 |1970= 11452
| 1980= 11172 |1980= 11172
| 1990= 10550 |1990= 10550
| 2000= 9511 |2000= 9511
| 2010= 9692 |2010= 9692
|2020= 8797
|
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{Cite web |title=Census of Population and Housing|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|access-date=June 4, 2015|publisher=Census.gov}}</ref>
}} }}


===2010 census===
As of the ]{{GR|2}} of 2000, there were 9,511 people, 3,963 households, and 2,464 families residing in the city. The ] was 125.6 people per square mile (48.5/km²). There were 4,405 housing units at an average density of 58.2 per square mile (22.5/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 95.13% ], 0.36% ], 2.26% ], 0.84% ], 0.03% ], 0.17% from ], and 1.21% from two or more races. ] or ] of any race were 0.65% of the population.
As of the ] of 2010, there were 9,692 people, 4,201 households, and 2,413 families residing in the city.<ref name="wwwcensusgov">{{Cite web |title=U.S. Census website |url=https://www.census.gov |access-date=November 23, 2012 |publisher=]}}</ref> The ] was {{convert|127.9|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|1}}. There were 4,608 housing units at an average density of {{convert|60.8|/sqmi|/km2|1}}. The racial makeup of the city was 94.5% ], 0.6% ], 2.4% ], 0.9% ], 0.2% from ], and 1.4% from two or more races. ] or ] residents of any race were 1.3% of the population.


There were 3,963 households out of which 28.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were ] living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.82. There were 4,201 households, of which 25.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.1% were ] living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.6% were non-families. 34.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.19 and the average family size was 2.78.


In the city the population was spread out with 21.6% under the age of 18, 13.1% from 18 to 24, 27.0% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females there were 91.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.2 males. The median age in the city was 40.2 years. 19.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 12.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.1% were from 25 to 44; 27.8% were from 45 to 64; and 16.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.2% male and 51.8% female.

===2000 census===
As of the ]<ref name="GR2">{{Cite web |title=U.S. Census website |url=https://www.census.gov |access-date=January 31, 2008 |publisher=]}}</ref> of 2000, there were 9,511 people, 3,963 households, and 2,464 families residing in the city. The population density was {{convert|125.6|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 4,405 housing units at an average density of {{convert|58.2|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the city was 95.13% ], 0.36% ], 2.26% ], 0.84% ], 0.03% ], 0.17% from ], and 1.21% from two or more races. ] or ] residents of any race were 0.65% of the population.

There were 3,963 households, out of which 28.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were ] living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.82.

In the city, 21.6% of the population was under the age of 18, 13.1% was from 18 to 24, 27.0% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.9% was 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.2 males.


The median income for a household in the city was $29,325, and the median income for a family was $37,090. Males had a median income of $27,510 versus $19,785 for females. The ] for the city was $15,712. About 9.2% of families and 14.5% of the population were below the ], including 16.1% of those under age 18 and 15.2% of those age 65 or over. The median income for a household in the city was $29,325, and the median income for a family was $37,090. Males had a median income of $27,510 versus $19,785 for females. The ] for the city was $15,712. About 9.2% of families and 14.5% of the population were below the ], including 16.1% of those under age 18 and 15.2% of those age 65 or over.


==Economy== ==Economy==
{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2008}}
Due to being ]'s largest city, Presque Isle is the retail center for a large number of both ] and ] towns. The became a major ] for residents during the 1990s. A Super ] center also attracts a large number of shoppers. ]e remains a top industry of Presque Isle and the surrounding area, with potatoes being the top crop. During the winter months many local businesses rely on the snowmobiling industry as there is a highly regarded trail system connecting far away towns and cities with Presque Isle. Presque Isle is also home to a significant ] near the ].


Due to being ]'s largest city, Presque Isle is the retail center for a large number of both American and ] towns. The ] became a major ] for residents during the 1990s. ] remains a top industry of Presque Isle and the surrounding area, with potatoes being the top crop. During the winter months many local businesses rely on the snowmobiling industry as there is a highly regarded trail system connecting far away towns and cities with Presque Isle. Presque Isle is also home to a significant ] near the ].
Presque Isle typically has a slightly higher unemployment level when compared to the state average.

The unemployment rate in Presque Isle is typically somewhat higher than the average across Maine.


==Media== ==Media==

===Television=== ===Television===
Presque Isle is home to one of the smallest TV markets as defined by ] market research. It consists of ] channel 8, a ]/] affiliate; and WMEM-TV channel 10, affiliated with the ] and ]. Presque Isle is home to one of the smallest TV markets as defined by ] market research. It consists of ] channel 8 (a ]/]/] affiliate), sister station ] channel 16 (an ] affiliate which launched on January 7, 2020), and WMEM-TV channel 10 (affiliated with the ] ("Maine Public") and ]). While not part of the Presque Isle TV market, ], the ABC affiliate out of Bangor, Maine, airs in Presque Isle, as does NBC affiliate ].


===Radio=== ===Radio===
Several radio stations have studios located in Presque Isle, including ], ] and ], all owned by ] and ] station ]. The city is also home to ], Channel X Radio, ], the University of Maine Presque Isle's ] which broadcasts on 92.1 and ] on 106.1. Several radio stations have studios located in Presque Isle, including ], ] and ], all owned by ]. The city is also home to ], the University of Maine Presque Isle's ] which broadcasts on 92.1. WMEM 106.1 is ]'s radio outlet for the area, affiliated with ].


===Newspaper=== ===Newspaper===
There are no daily newspapers in Aroostook County. ''The Star-Herald'' is published Wednesdays, one of several weekly newspapers published in Aroostook County. Others include Caribou's ''Aroostook Republican'', Madawaska's ''St. John Valley Times'', ''The Fort Fairfield Journal'' and Houlton's ''Pioneer Times''. There are no daily newspapers in Aroostook County. ''The ]'' is published Wednesdays, one of several weekly newspapers published in Aroostook County. Others include Caribou's ''Aroostook Republican'', Madawaska's '']'', ''The Fort Fairfield Journal'' and Houlton's ''Pioneer Times''. The '']'' has an Aroostook County edition.


==Sites of interest== ==Sites of interest==
* ]
*
* * Aroostook State Park
* ] * ]
* * Northern Maine Museum of Science
* Presque Isle Air Museum
*
* * Presque Isle Historical Society & Museum
* Nordic Heritage Center and Ski Trails
*
* The Maine Solar System Model

== In popular culture ==
Presque Isle is the focal location for operations in the 1953 film '']''.

The city is also where Handy McKay retires to open a diner in the ] novel series by ].


==Notable people== == Notable people ==
]
<!-- Note: <!-- Note:
· Only people who already have a Misplaced Pages article may appear here. This establishes notability. · Only people who already have a Misplaced Pages article may appear here. This establishes notability.
· The biographical article must mention how they are associated with <city name>, whether born, raised, or residing. · The article must mention how they are associated with <city name>, whether born, raised, or residing.
· The fact of their association should have a reliable source cited. · The fact of their association should have a reliable source cited.
· Alphabetical by last name please · Alphabetical by last name please.
· All others will be deleted without further explanation · All others will be deleted.
--> -->

* ], designer
* ], painter<ref name="HellerHeller2013">{{Cite book |last1=Jules Heller |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AYxmAgAAQBAJ&pg=PR11 |title=North American Women Artists of the Twentieth Century: A Biographical Dictionary |last2=Nancy G. Heller |date=December 19, 2013 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-135-63882-5}}</ref>
* ], actor * ], actor
* ], author * ], author
* ], state legislator
* ], state legislator and Aroostook County Probate Judge]
* ], state legislator
* ], author * ], author
* ], associate professor emeritus of education, ]
* ], businessman and senator
* ], businessman and U.S. Senator
* ], wrestling champion * ], wrestling champion
* ], state legislator
* ], designer
* ], women's employment advocate and nonprofit director
* ], musician * ], musician
* ], veteran and state legislator
* ], paleontologist * ], paleontologist
* ], baseball player * ], catcher for several ] teams
* ], state legislator<ref>{{Cite web |title=Joseph Underwood |url=https://ballotpedia.org/Joseph_Underwood |access-date=2024-02-21 |website=Ballotpedia |language=en}}</ref>
* ], former state legislator
* ], state senator
* ], colonel; World War II Air Force pilot


==References== ==References==

{{portal|Maine}}
{{reflist}} {{reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{citation |chapter-url=https://archive.org/details/gazetteerofstate00varn/page/470/mode/2up |chapter= Presque Isle |title= Gazetteer of the State of Maine |author= George J. Varney |year=1881 |publisher=B.B. Russell |location=Boston |via=Internet Archive }}


==External links== ==External links==
* {{Commons category-inline|Presque Isle, Maine}}
*
* *
* *
*
*
*
*
*
*


{{Aroostook County, Maine}} {{Aroostook County, Maine}}
{{MELargestCities}}
{{Maine}} {{Maine}}
{{Saint John River}}


{{Authority control}}

]
] ]
] ]
] ]

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Latest revision as of 17:01, 27 October 2024

City in Maine, United States This article is about the Maine city. For other areas, see Presque Isle.

City in Maine, United States
Presque Isle, Maine
City
Clockwise, from top: Crown of Maine Balloon Fest in Presque Isle, Downtown, University of Maine at Presque Isle, Aroostook Band of Micmac headquarters and museum, Nordic Heritage Center, Aroostook Centre Mall, UMPI wind turbine, Main StreetClockwise, from top: Crown of Maine Balloon Fest in Presque Isle, Downtown, University of Maine at Presque Isle, Aroostook Band of Micmac headquarters and museum, Nordic Heritage Center, Aroostook Centre Mall, UMPI wind turbine, Main Street
Official seal of Presque Isle, MaineSeal
Nickname: The Star City
Motto: The Hub of Aroostook
Location of Presque Isle, MaineLocation of Presque Isle, Maine
Presque Isle is located in MainePresque IslePresque IsleLocationShow map of MainePresque Isle is located in the United StatesPresque IslePresque IslePresque Isle (the United States)Show map of the United States
Coordinates: 46°40′46″N 68°0′8″W / 46.67944°N 68.00222°W / 46.67944; -68.00222
Country United States
State Maine
CountyAroostook
Incorporated (town)April 4, 1859
Incorporated (city)January 1, 1940
Named placesParkhurst
Spragueville
Area
 • Total77.60 sq mi (200.99 km)
 • Land75.78 sq mi (196.27 km)
 • Water1.82 sq mi (4.72 km)
Elevation456 ft (139 m)
Population
 • Total8,797
 • Density116.09/sq mi (44.82/km)
DemonymPresqueillian
Time zoneUTC−5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC−4 (EDT)
ZIP code04769
Area code207
FIPS code23-60825
GNIS feature ID0573790
Websitepresqueislemaine.gov

Presque Isle (/prɛsk/ PRESK) is the commercial center and largest city in Aroostook County, Maine, United States. The population was 8,797 at the 2020 Census. The city is home to the University of Maine at Presque Isle, Northern Maine Community College, Northern Maine Fairgrounds, the Aroostook Centre Mall, and the Presque Isle International Airport.

Presque Isle is the headquarters of the Aroostook Band of Micmac, a federally recognized tribe.

History

Presque Isle in 1944

The first European settlers were British Loyalists who reached the area in 1819 hoping to obtain land for lumber. Border disputes between the United States and the United Kingdom over the area, however, made it impossible for pioneers to gain title to the land. In response, the government of the neighboring British colony of New Brunswick (now a Canadian province) gave out patents for pioneers to live on the land but not claim ownership or sell it. By 1825, surveyors traveling along the Aroostook River noted that twenty families lived along it and noted that while agriculture was present, all of the families employed most of their time towards wood production.

The boundary dispute slowed development in the area, but the government of Massachusetts, which governed the territory at the time, saw the territory as theirs and encouraged the development of settlements in northern Maine by offering land grants and mill privileges in the 1820s. The first American to settle in the area was Dennis Fairbanks in 1828 who gained ownership over the land under the provisions set up by Massachusetts and later Maine, which gained statehood in 1820.

Name and incorporation

Originally known as Fairbanks for its founder Dennis Fairbanks, Presque Isle was settled in 1828 on land that was unknown to be part of British North America (Canada) or the United States. The Aroostook War broke out in 1838 because of boundary disputes between the two countries, which were resolved in 1842 by the Webster-Ashburton Treaty. The township was incorporated from Plantations F, G and H on April 4, 1859, as Presque Isle, derived from the French term for peninsula (presqu'île), as the courses of the Aroostook River and Presque Isle Stream form a peninsula. In 1864, Fairmount Cemetery was established in the south of Presque Isle to accommodate Union soldiers returning from the Civil War. In 1883, the town of Maysville was annexed.

On January 1, 1940, Presque Isle was incorporated as a city.

Industry, agriculture and transportation

Lumbering and early industries

The first industry to form in Presque Isle was the lumber industry. By the 1880s, industry included two lumbermills, a gristmill, a wool carding mill, a furniture factory, a carriage factory and a tinware factory.

Agriculture

During the last 30 years of the 19th century, agriculture became important, and the entire county became noted for its production of potatoes. On October 9, 1851, the first Northern Maine Fair exhibition opened. A starch factory was opened in 1874, providing a ready market for local potatoes. In 1914 the Aroostook Farm was purchased as a Maine Agricultural Experiment Station.

Railroad

In 1881, the New Brunswick Railway created the first rail connection in Presque Isle. The Bangor and Aroostook Railroad arrived in 1895.

Airport

A small airport was established in 1931. It was expanded within the decade and later assumed major military importance. The Presque Isle Air Force Base, in operation between 1941 and 1961, was a major departure point for U.S. fighter planes during World War II and the Korean War due to its relative proximity to Europe. When the base was sold, a piece of it became the Northern Maine Regional Airport. In June 2018, the Northern Maine Regional Airport was renamed Presque Isle International Airport.

Beginning on July 2, 2018, United Airlines began service from the Presque Isle International Airport in Presque Isle, Maine to Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey. These flights are federally subsidized through the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, and are operated by United Express carrier, GoJet Airlines.

On 4 June 2024, the US Dept. of Transportation awarded Jet Blue its first ever essential air service contract to replace United Airlines at Presque Isle. The service will be less frequent, but offer more capacity to Boston Logan, than the previous service offered to Newark Liberty International.

Colleges and universities

State Normal School in 1933

In 1903, the Aroostook State Normal School began offering a two-year teacher preparation program. In 1968, it was renamed the University of Maine at Presque Isle. Northern Maine Technical College was established in 1961, now Northern Maine Community College. The first students entered the college in 1963. Today it serves about 2000 students.

Hospitals

The first Presque Isle Hospital was established on April 8, 1912. Four physicians were affiliated with the hospital, whose dual aims were to serve the community and to provide a training school for nurses. The building was a white-frame structure, enlarged from a home under construction. The need and demand for the hospital increased so rapidly that in 1921 a new three-story brick hospital was dedicated. This hospital was in operation for nearly four decades, when it, too, proved inadequate. A major fundraising campaign was launched in the late 1950s. After a large donation was given by Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Wildes, the daughter of the late Senator Arthur Gould, the Arthur R. Gould Memorial Hospital was constructed and opened in 1960. The hospital has expanded and been modernized in recent years, and in 1981 became part of The Aroostook Medical Center.

The Double Eagle II

Commemorative model of Double Eagle II

On August 11, 1978, the Double Eagle II was launched from a Presque Isle field carrying three passengers. It made the first successful transatlantic balloon crossing. In honor of the Double Eagle II, the city holds an annual celebration called The Crown of Maine Balloon Festival. The popular event includes balloon rides, plane tours, amateur photo contests and children's fair rides. Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and other local organizations, it is held in late August. The field from which the Double Eagle II lifted off now features a commemorative model balloon.

All American City

Presque Isle was named an All American City in 1966.

Historic images

  • Potato harvesting in 1909 Potato harvesting in 1909
  • Greenlaw Block c. 1912 Greenlaw Block c. 1912
  • Old opera house c. 1912 Old opera house c. 1912
  • Presque Isle General Hospital, mid-1910s Presque Isle General Hospital, mid-1910s

Geography and climate

Presque Isle is located at 46°40′46″N 68°0′8″W / 46.67944°N 68.00222°W / 46.67944; -68.00222 (46.679321, −68.002166).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 77.60 square miles (200.98 km), of which 75.76 square miles (196.22 km) is land and 1.84 square miles (4.77 km) is water. Presque Isle is drained by the Aroostook River and Presque Isle Stream (also called Prestile Stream).

Presque Isle has a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfb) typified by long cold winters and short warm summers.

Presque Isle is the driest city in Maine, with an annual precipitation of 38.5 in (980 mm).

Climate data for Presque Isle, Maine (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1893–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °F (°C) 55
(13) 		59
(15) 		76
(24) 		85
(29) 		94
(34) 		95
(35) 		99
(37) 		99
(37) 		91
(33) 		84
(29) 		70
(21) 		57
(14) 		99
(37)
Mean maximum °F (°C) 44.0
(6.7) 		41.8
(5.4) 		51.4
(10.8) 		69.0
(20.6) 		81.9
(27.7) 		87.1
(30.6) 		88.6
(31.4) 		87.5
(30.8) 		82.7
(28.2) 		72.0
(22.2) 		59.7
(15.4) 		47.2
(8.4) 		90.8
(32.7)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 22.3
(−5.4) 		25.9
(−3.4) 		35.7
(2.1) 		49.6
(9.8) 		65.2
(18.4) 		73.7
(23.2) 		78.5
(25.8) 		77.3
(25.2) 		69.1
(20.6) 		54.5
(12.5) 		40.0
(4.4) 		28.2
(−2.1) 		51.7
(10.9)
Daily mean °F (°C) 12.8
(−10.7) 		15.6
(−9.1) 		25.9
(−3.4) 		39.5
(4.2) 		53.2
(11.8) 		62.0
(16.7) 		67.4
(19.7) 		65.9
(18.8) 		58.0
(14.4) 		45.4
(7.4) 		33.0
(0.6) 		20.4
(−6.4) 		41.6
(5.3)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 3.3
(−15.9) 		5.3
(−14.8) 		16.0
(−8.9) 		29.3
(−1.5) 		41.3
(5.2) 		50.4
(10.2) 		56.3
(13.5) 		54.5
(12.5) 		46.8
(8.2) 		36.3
(2.4) 		26.0
(−3.3) 		12.5
(−10.8) 		31.5
(−0.3)
Mean minimum °F (°C) −21.2
(−29.6) 		−17.0
(−27.2) 		−9.3
(−22.9) 		13.5
(−10.3) 		28.4
(−2.0) 		36.5
(2.5) 		44.3
(6.8) 		40.7
(4.8) 		29.8
(−1.2) 		21.0
(−6.1) 		6.7
(−14.1) 		−11.8
(−24.3) 		−23.7
(−30.9)
Record low °F (°C) −41
(−41) 		−37
(−38) 		−30
(−34) 		−5
(−21) 		16
(−9) 		25
(−4) 		35
(2) 		29
(−2) 		15
(−9) 		8
(−13) 		−15
(−26) 		−35
(−37) 		−41
(−41)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 2.53
(64) 		1.92
(49) 		2.35
(60) 		2.79
(71) 		3.29
(84) 		3.81
(97) 		3.66
(93) 		3.81
(97) 		3.51
(89) 		4.16
(106) 		3.06
(78) 		3.16
(80) 		38.05
(966)
Average snowfall inches (cm) 21.1
(54) 		21.7
(55) 		19.0
(48) 		6.3
(16) 		0.2
(0.51) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.2
(0.51) 		1.2
(3.0) 		6.1
(15) 		21.7
(55) 		97.5
(248)
Average extreme snow depth inches (cm) 19.6
(50) 		25.2
(64) 		24.7
(63) 		10.0
(25) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.6
(1.5) 		3.8
(9.7) 		10.6
(27) 		25.6
(65)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) 11.0 8.1 9.7 11.5 12.7 13.0 14.0 11.5 10.3 12.9 11.1 11.2 137.0
Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) 9.0 6.7 6.0 2.1 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 3.1 7.3 34.8
Average relative humidity (%) 92 92 93 86 75 78 78 80 80 82 82 89 84
Mean daily sunshine hours 2.6 2.1 3.2 5.4 7.4 8.2 9.4 9.5 7.3 5.5 4.0 3.1 5.6
Mean daily daylight hours 9.1 10.4 12.0 13.6 15.1 15.8 15.4 14.1 12.5 10.9 9.4 8.6 12.2
Average ultraviolet index 1 1 1 2 4 5 5 4 3 2 1 1 3
Source 1: NOAA
Source 2: Weather Atlas (UV and humidity)

Government

The City of Presque Isle operates under the council-manager form of government. The current city manager is Martin Puckett.

Demographics

Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1860723—
187097034.2%
18801,30534.5%
18903,046133.4%
19003,80424.9%
19105,17936.1%
19205,5817.8%
19306,96524.8%
19407,93914.0%
19509,95425.4%
196012,88629.5%
197011,452−11.1%
198011,172−2.4%
199010,550−5.6%
20009,511−9.8%
20109,6921.9%
20208,797−9.2%
U.S. Decennial Census

2010 census

As of the census of 2010, there were 9,692 people, 4,201 households, and 2,413 families residing in the city. The population density was 127.9 inhabitants per square mile (49.4/km). There were 4,608 housing units at an average density of 60.8 per square mile (23.5/km). The racial makeup of the city was 94.5% White, 0.6% African American, 2.4% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 1.3% of the population.

There were 4,201 households, of which 25.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.1% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.6% were non-families. 34.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.19 and the average family size was 2.78.

The median age in the city was 40.2 years. 19.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 12.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.1% were from 25 to 44; 27.8% were from 45 to 64; and 16.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.2% male and 51.8% female.

2000 census

As of the census of 2000, there were 9,511 people, 3,963 households, and 2,464 families residing in the city. The population density was 125.6 inhabitants per square mile (48.5/km). There were 4,405 housing units at an average density of 58.2 per square mile (22.5/km). The racial makeup of the city was 95.13% White, 0.36% African American, 2.26% Native American, 0.84% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.17% from other races, and 1.21% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 0.65% of the population.

There were 3,963 households, out of which 28.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were married couples living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.82.

In the city, 21.6% of the population was under the age of 18, 13.1% was from 18 to 24, 27.0% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.9% was 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,325, and the median income for a family was $37,090. Males had a median income of $27,510 versus $19,785 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,712. About 9.2% of families and 14.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.1% of those under age 18 and 15.2% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

Due to being Aroostook County's largest city, Presque Isle is the retail center for a large number of both American and Canadian towns. The Aroostook Centre Mall became a major shopping center for residents during the 1990s. Agriculture remains a top industry of Presque Isle and the surrounding area, with potatoes being the top crop. During the winter months many local businesses rely on the snowmobiling industry as there is a highly regarded trail system connecting far away towns and cities with Presque Isle. Presque Isle is also home to a significant industrial park near the Presque Isle International Airport.

The unemployment rate in Presque Isle is typically somewhat higher than the average across Maine.

Media

Television

Presque Isle is home to one of the smallest TV markets as defined by Nielsen market research. It consists of WAGM-TV channel 8 (a CBS/Fox/CW+ affiliate), sister station WWPI-LD channel 16 (an NBC affiliate which launched on January 7, 2020), and WMEM-TV channel 10 (affiliated with the Maine Public Broadcasting Network ("Maine Public") and PBS). While not part of the Presque Isle TV market, WVII-TV, the ABC affiliate out of Bangor, Maine, airs in Presque Isle, as does NBC affiliate WLBZ.

Radio

Several radio stations have studios located in Presque Isle, including WBPW, WOZI and WQHR, all owned by Townsquare Media. The city is also home to WUPI, the University of Maine Presque Isle's student radio station which broadcasts on 92.1. WMEM 106.1 is Maine Public's radio outlet for the area, affiliated with National Public Radio.

Newspaper

There are no daily newspapers in Aroostook County. The Presque Isle Star-Herald is published Wednesdays, one of several weekly newspapers published in Aroostook County. Others include Caribou's Aroostook Republican, Madawaska's St. John Valley Times, The Fort Fairfield Journal and Houlton's Pioneer Times. The Bangor Daily News has an Aroostook County edition.

Sites of interest

In popular culture

Presque Isle is the focal location for operations in the 1953 film Island in the Sky.

The city is also where Handy McKay retires to open a diner in the Parker novel series by Richard Stark.

Notable people

References

  1. "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved April 8, 2022.
  2. "Census - Geography Profile: Presque Isle city, Maine". Retrieved January 8, 2022.
  3. "Tribal Directory." National Congress of American Indians. Retrieved May 1, 2013.
  4. ^ Sebold, Kimberly. "History of Presque Isle". Presque Isle Maine Memory. Presque Isle Historical Society. Retrieved May 14, 2015.
  5. Sebold, Kim. "History of Presque Isle". Maine Memory Network. Retrieved May 28, 2014.
  6. Smith, David C. (1980). A History of the Maine Agricultural Experiment Station 1885-1978. Orono, ME: University of Maine. pp. 196–197.
  7. "Name of Northern Maine Regional Airport changing". WAGM. June 27, 2018. Retrieved September 3, 2018.
  8. "United Airlines open for business in Presque Isle". July 2, 2018.
  9. "Home". gojetairlines.com.
  10. ^ "About NMCC". Northern Maine Community College. NMCC. Retrieved February 21, 2013.
  11. ^ Dean, Marilyn (1984). A History of Presque Isle's Hospital. Presque Isle, ME: The Aroostook Medical Center.
  12. Double Eagle II – Maine Office of Tourism Archived January 1, 2011, at the Wayback Machine
  13. "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". United States Census Bureau. February 12, 2011. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
  14. "US Gazetteer files 2010". United States Census Bureau. Archived from the original on July 2, 2012. Retrieved November 23, 2012.
  15. "NOAA's 1981–2010 Climate Normals". National Climatic Data Center.
  16. "NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved May 23, 2021.
  17. "Station: Presque Isle, ME". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved May 23, 2021.
  18. "Climate and monthly weather forecast Presque Isle, ME". Retrieved August 18, 2022.
  19. "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  20. "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved November 23, 2012.
  21. "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  22. Jules Heller; Nancy G. Heller (December 19, 2013). North American Women Artists of the Twentieth Century: A Biographical Dictionary. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-135-63882-5.
  23. "Joseph Underwood". Ballotpedia. Retrieved February 21, 2024.

Further reading

  • George J. Varney (1881), "Presque Isle", Gazetteer of the State of Maine, Boston: B.B. Russell – via Internet Archive

External links

Media related to Presque Isle, Maine at Wikimedia Commons

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