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{{Short description| Town in the state of Maine, United States}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2015}} {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2024}}
{{Infobox settlement {{Infobox settlement
|official_name = Rumford, Maine |official_name = Rumford, Maine
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<!-- Population --> <!-- Population -->
|population_as_of = ] |population_as_of = ]
|population_est = 5760 |population_est =
|pop_est_as_of =
|pop_est_as_of = 2012<ref name="2012 Pop Estimate">{{cite web|title=Population Estimates|url=https://www.census.gov/popest/data/cities/totals/2012/SUB-EST2012.html|publisher=]|accessdate=2013-07-06|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6HQu4Spqa?url=http://www.census.gov/popest/data/cities/totals/2012/SUB-EST2012.html|archivedate=June 17, 2013|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
|population_footnotes =<ref name ="wwwcensusgov"/> |population_footnotes =
|population_total = 5841 |population_total = 5858
|population_density_km2 = 32.9 |population_density_km2 = 33.0
|population_density_sq_mi = 85.2 |population_density_sq_mi =


<!-- General information --> <!-- General information -->
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}} }}


'''Rumford''' is a ] in ], Maine, United States. The population was 5,841 at the ]. Rumford is home to both ND Paper Inc's ] and the ] ski resort. '''Rumford''' is a ] in ], United States. Rumford is included in the ], Maine metropolitan New England city and town area. The population was 5,858 at the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=0600000US2301764290|title=Census - Geography Profile: Rumford town, Oxford County, Maine|access-date=January 12, 2022}}</ref> Rumford is home to both ND Paper Inc's ] and the ] ski resort.


==History== ==History==

] ]
Originally called New Pennacook Plantation, the township was granted in 1779 to Timothy Walker, Jr. and associates of ], New Hampshire. Both ] and Rumford are former names of Concord, from which many early settlers arrived. The first pioneers, however, were Jonathan Keyes and his son Francis in 1782 from ], Massachusetts. Incorporated in 1800, the town would later annex land from ] and Franklin Plantation.<ref name=Coolidge>{{Cite book | last = Coolidge | first = Austin J.|author2=John B. Mansfield | title = A History and Description of New England| publisher = A.J. Coolidge | year = 1859| location = Boston, Massachusetts| pages = –288| url = https://archive.org/details/bub_gb_OcoMAAAAYAAJ| quote = coolidge mansfield history description new england 1859. }}</ref> Originally called New Pennacook Plantation, the township was granted in 1779 to Timothy Walker, Jr. and associates of ], New Hampshire. Both ] and Rumford are former names of Concord, from which many early settlers arrived. The first pioneers, however, were Jonathan Keyes and his son Francis in 1782 from ], Massachusetts. Incorporated in 1800, the town would later annex land from ] and Franklin Plantation.<ref name=Coolidge>{{Cite book | last = Coolidge | first = Austin J.|author2=John B. Mansfield | title = A History and Description of New England| publisher = A.J. Coolidge | year = 1859| location = Boston, Massachusetts| pages = –288| url = https://archive.org/details/bub_gb_OcoMAAAAYAAJ| quote = coolidge mansfield history description new england 1859. }}</ref>
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</ref> </ref>


In 1882, ] ] recognized the falls' potential for the manufacture of paper. Chisholm directed construction of the ] connecting Rumford to the national rail network in 1892.<ref>{{cite book| title=The Best of Maine Railroads |author=Johnson, Ron |publisher=Portland Litho |year=1985 |isbn= |pages=25–26, 41, 53, 55, 76–77&111–112}}</ref> The first ] began operation in 1893, drawing an infusion of people and money into the sleepy community of about 200 residents. ], owned by Chisholm, would dominate Rumford's riverfront and economy.<ref>.</ref> In 1882, ] ] recognized the falls' potential for the manufacture of paper. Chisholm directed construction of the ] connecting Rumford to the national rail network in 1892.<ref>{{cite book| title=The Best of Maine Railroads |author=Johnson, Ron |publisher=Portland Litho |year=1985 |pages=25–26, 41, 53, 55, 76–77&111–112}}</ref> The first ] began operation in 1893, drawing an infusion of people and money into the sleepy community of about 200 residents. ], owned by Chisholm, would dominate Rumford's riverfront and economy.<ref>.</ref>


Much of the ] was built in the spurt of prosperity at the turn-of-the-century, and Rumford retains significant ] and ]. Most notable is ], perhaps the finest company housing in the nation. Wishing to avoid the stacked slums endemic at ] and ], Massachusetts, Hugh Chisholm commissioned ] in 1900 to plan a {{convert|30|acre|ha|adj=on}} site in his ], instructing the prominent architect that "We will build of brick and stone and slate, and we will provide not merely for a house, but for comfort, elegance and social gratification."<ref name="rumfordfalls.blogspot.com">{{cite web|url=http://rumfordfalls.blogspot.com/2007/12/history-of-strathglass-park.html|title=Historic Rumford: The History of Strathglass Park|first=Kevin N.|last=Saisi|date=December 2, 2007|website=rumfordfalls.blogspot.com|accessdate=April 13, 2018}}</ref> Much of the ] was built in the spurt of prosperity between approximately 1890 and 1920, and Rumford retains significant ] and ]. Most notable is ], perhaps the finest company housing in the nation at that time. Wishing to avoid the stacked slums endemic at ] and ], Massachusetts, Hugh Chisholm commissioned ] in 1900 to plan a {{convert|30|acre|ha|adj=on}} site in his ], instructing the prominent architect that "We will build of brick and stone and slate, and we will provide not merely for a house, but for comfort, elegance and social gratification."<ref name="rumfordfalls.blogspot.com">{{cite web|url=http://rumfordfalls.blogspot.com/2007/12/history-of-strathglass-park.html|title=Historic Rumford: The History of Strathglass Park|first=Kevin N.|last=Saisi|date=December 2, 2007|website=rumfordfalls.blogspot.com|access-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref>


Named after the seat of Clan Chisholm at Strathglass Carries, ], Gilbert in 1901 produced 5 designs for 51 ], each with subtle differences. The same year, Chisholm founded The Rumford Realty Company to build the oval-shaped development, its entrance marked by an imposing granite gateway. With attractive lawns and broad, tree-lined streets, all maintenance was provided by the Oxford Paper Company. Even valet service was included. Tenants paid a rent of $9.00 per month, plus $1.00 per month to the Rumford Falls Power Company, also belonging to Chisholm. But in 1948, the incomplete development was no longer economically viable, and the houses were sold for between $3,400 and $3,900 per duplex. Named after the seat of Clan Chisholm at Strathglass Carries, ], Gilbert in 1901 produced 5 different designs for 51 ]. The same year, Chisholm founded The Rumford Realty Company to build the oval-shaped development, its entrance marked by an imposing granite gateway. With attractive lawns and broad, tree-lined streets, all maintenance was provided by the Oxford Paper Company. Even valet service was included. Tenants paid a rent of $9.00 per month, plus $1.00 per month for electricity to the Rumford Falls Power Company, also belonging to Chisholm. In 1948 with the dissolution of the Rumford Realty Company, the existing duplex buildings were first offered for sale to the tenant of the two with the longest residency. But later, each half of the single building was sold creating two owners of each building. Recognized for unique architectural and social merit, in 1974 Strathglass Park was added to the ] as a ].<ref name="rumfordfalls.blogspot.com"/> Unfortunately due to lack of maintenance since that year of private sale, and due to a general deterioration of the brick and concrete materials, as well as the fact that nearly all existing buildings are owned by two independent and generally non-collaborative owners has caused each building to look like two halves, each painted differently, each maintained and repaired differently instead of the single duplex originally designed so that the entire development has taken on the look of a run-down, slummy group of buildings. A major factor in this impression is also that the development was designed before the advent of the personal automobile, but to accommodate those automobiles since then the lawns have been converted to make-shift parking lots for multiple vehicles.


⚫ Today, much of the history of Rumford is preserved by the Rumford Historical Society.<ref name="Rumford Historical Society">{{cite web |url=http://www.rumfordmaine.net/history/history.htm |title=The Rumford Historical Society |url-status=dead |access-date=July 27, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723004829/http://www.rumfordmaine.net/history/history.htm |archive-date=July 23, 2012 }}</ref> Founded in 1961, under the sponsorship of prominent residents Louis Thibodeau, Minerva Anderson and Jonathan Mackenzie, the society pledges to preserve the rich history of the western mill town and encourage community involvement among all.
⚫ In June 1941, the cabin cruiser "The Don" sunk off of Harpswell, Maine with 34 residents of Rumford on board. It remains the largest loss of life in the town's history. The cause of the wreck was never determined but multiple theories abound as to the vessel's demise including it being sunk by a U-boat or an insurance scheme. The only communication from the boat was shortly after it left port when a radio distress call came out to nearby ships with a voice saying "If I don't get off this boat somebody's gonna get thumped."{{Citation needed|date=January 2016}}

⚫ Recognized for unique architectural and social merit, in 1974 Strathglass Park was added to the ] as a ].<ref name="rumfordfalls.blogspot.com"/> Today, much of the history of Rumford is preserved by the Rumford Historical Society.<ref name="Rumford Historical Society">{{cite web |url=http://www.rumfordmaine.net/history/history.htm |title=The Rumford Historical Society |url-status=dead |accessdate=July 27, 2012 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723004829/http://www.rumfordmaine.net/history/history.htm |archivedate=July 23, 2012 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Founded in 1961, under the sponsorship of prominent residents Louis Thibodeau, Minerva Anderson and Jonathan Mackenzie, the society pledges to preserve the rich history of the western mill town and encourage community involvement among all.
<gallery> <gallery>
File:Strathglass Building.jpg|The Strathglass Building in 1907 File:Strathglass Building.jpg|The Strathglass Building in 1907
File:The Falls, Rumford Falls, ME.jpg|Pennacook Falls c. 1905 File:The Falls, Rumford Falls, ME.jpg|Pennacook Falls {{circa|1905}}
File:Public Library, Rumford Falls, ME.jpg|Public library c. 1907, a ] File:Public Library, Rumford Falls, ME.jpg|Public library {{circa|1907}}, a ]
File:Strathglass_Park_Rumford_Maine_Postcard_early_20th.jpg|Strathglass Park housing {{circa|1910}}

</gallery> </gallery>

⚫ In June 1941, the cabin cruiser "The Don" sunk off of Harpswell, Maine with 34 residents of Rumford on board. It remains the largest loss of life in the town's history. The cause of the wreck was never determined but multiple theories abound as to the vessel's demise including it being sunk by a U-boat or an insurance scheme. The only communication from the boat was shortly after it left port when a radio distress call came out to nearby ships with a voice saying "If I don't get off this boat somebody's gonna get thumped."{{Citation needed|date=January 2016}}


==Geography== ==Geography==
According to the ], the town has a total area of {{convert|69.85|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, of which {{convert|68.55|sqmi|sqkm|2}} of it is land and {{convert|1.30|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is water.<ref name ="Gazetteer files">{{cite web|title=US Gazetteer files 2010|url=https://www.census.gov/geo/maps-data/data/gazetteer2010.html|publisher=]|accessdate=2012-12-16}}</ref> Rumford is located where the Concord, Ellis, and Swift rivers drain into the Androscoggin river. Black Mountain, elevation 2,133 feet (650 m),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.topoquest.com/map.asp?lat=44.58389&lon=-70.6375&datum=nad27&u=4&layer=DRG&size=l&s=50|title=Black Mountain, ME - N44.58389° W70.63750°|author=|date=|website=www.topoquest.com|accessdate=April 13, 2018}}</ref> and Rumford Whitecap, elevation 2,197 feet (670 m), are in the north. According to the ], the town has a total area of {{convert|69.85|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, of which {{convert|68.55|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is land and {{convert|1.30|sqmi|sqkm|2}} is water.<ref name ="Gazetteer files">{{cite web|title=US Gazetteer files 2010|url=https://www.census.gov/geo/maps-data/data/gazetteer2010.html|publisher=]|access-date=December 16, 2012}}</ref> Rumford is located where the Concord, Ellis, and Swift rivers drain into the Androscoggin river. Black Mountain, elevation 2,133 feet (650 m),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.topoquest.com/map.asp?lat=44.58389&lon=-70.6375&datum=nad27&u=4&layer=DRG&size=l&s=50|title=Black Mountain, ME - N44.58389° W70.63750°|website=www.topoquest.com|access-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> and Rumford Whitecap, elevation 2,197 feet (670 m), are in the north.


===Climate=== ===Climate===
This ] region has large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the ] system, Rumford has a ], abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=33771&cityname=Rumford,+Maine,+United+States+of+America&units=|title=Rumford, Maine Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)|author=|date=|website=Weatherbase|accessdate=April 13, 2018}}</ref> This ] region has large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the ] system, Rumford has a ], abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=33771&cityname=Rumford,+Maine,+United+States+of+America&units=|title=Rumford, Maine Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)|website=Weatherbase|access-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref>
{{Weather box {{Weather box
|location = Rumford, Maine |location = Rumford, Maine
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|2000= 6472 |2000= 6472
|2010= 5841 |2010= 5841
|2020= 5858
|estyear=2014
⚫ |footnote=sources:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.library.umaine.edu/census/townsearch.asp |title=Fogler Library - Maine Census Population Totals - Database Search Results for Minor Civil Divisions |access-date=September 1, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929135907/http://www.library.umaine.edu/census/townsearch.asp |archive-date=September 29, 2011 }} .</ref>
|estimate=5697
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2014">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/popest/data/cities/totals/2014/SUB-EST2014.html|title=Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Incorporated Places: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2014|accessdate=June 4, 2015|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523034651/https://www.census.gov/popest/data/cities/totals/2014/SUB-EST2014.html|archivedate=May 23, 2015|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
⚫ |footnote=sources:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.library.umaine.edu/census/townsearch.asp |title=Archived copy |accessdate=2010-09-01 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929135907/http://www.library.umaine.edu/census/townsearch.asp |archivedate=September 29, 2011 |df=mdy-all }} .</ref>
}} }}


===2010 census=== ===2010 census===
As of the census<ref name ="wwwcensusgov">{{cite web|title=U.S. Census website|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=]|accessdate=2012-12-16}}</ref> of 2010, there were 5,841 people, 2,674 households, and 1,524 families living in the town. The population density was {{convert|85.2|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|1}}. There were 3,287 housing units at an average density of {{convert|48.0|/sqmi|/km2|1}}. The racial makeup of the town was 97.2% ], 0.6% ], 0.2% ], 0.2% ], 0.6% from ], and 1.2% from two or more races. ] or ] of any race were 1.6% of the population. As of the census<ref name ="wwwcensusgov">{{cite web|title=U.S. Census website|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=]|access-date=December 16, 2012}}</ref> of 2010, there were 5,841 people, 2,674 households, and 1,524 families living in the town. The population density was {{convert|85.2|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|1}}. There were 3,287 housing units at an average density of {{convert|48.0|/sqmi|/km2|1}}. The racial makeup of the town was 97.2% ], 0.6% ], 0.2% ], 0.2% ], 0.6% from ], and 1.2% from two or more races. ] or ] of any race were 1.6% of the population.


There were 2,674 households of which 24.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.8% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.0% were non-families. 34.9% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.76. There were 2,674 households, of which 24.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.8% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.0% were non-families. 34.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.76.


The median age in the town was 45.5 years. 20.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21% were from 25 to 44; 30.6% were from 45 to 64; and 20.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.4% male and 51.6% female. The median age in the town was 45.5 years. 20.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21% were from 25 to 44; 30.6% were from 45 to 64; and 20.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.4% male and 51.6% female.


===2000 census=== ===2000 census===
As of the census<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=]|accessdate=2008-01-31|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref> of 2000, there were 6,472 people, 2,876 households, and 1,754 families living in the town. The population density was 94.3 people per square mile (36.4/km{{sup|2}}). There were 3,280 housing units at an average density of 47.8 per square mile (18.5/km{{sup|2}}). The racial makeup of the town was 98.67% ], 0.11% ] or ], 0.32% ], 0.26% ], 0.06% from ], and 0.57% from two or more races. ] or ] of any race were 0.60% of the population. As of the census<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=]|access-date=January 31, 2008|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref> of 2000, there were 6,472 people, 2,876 households, and 1,754 families living in the town. The population density was {{convert|94.3|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 3,280 housing units at an average density of {{convert|47.8|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the town was 98.67% ], 0.11% ] or ], 0.32% ], 0.26% ], 0.06% from ], and 0.57% from two or more races. ] or ] of any race were 0.60% of the population.


There were 2,876 households, of which 26.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.4% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.0% were non-families. 33.6% of all households were made up of individuals and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.78. There were 2,876 households, of which 26.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.4% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.0% were non-families. 33.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.78.


In the town, the population was spread out with 23.1% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 21.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.3 males. In the town, the population was spread out, with 23.1% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 21.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.3 males.


The median income for a household in the town was $27,639, and the median income for a family was $33,878. Males had a median income of $39,917 versus $20,632 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,701. About 12.4% of families and 16.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.9% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over. The median income for a household in the town was $27,639, and the median income for a family was $33,878. Males had a median income of $39,917 versus $20,632 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,701. About 12.4% of families and 16.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.9% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over.


==Education== ==Education==
The '''University College at Rumford/Mexico'''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.learn.maine.edu/rumfordmexico|title=UC 404 - University College|author=|date=|website=University College|accessdate=April 13, 2018}}</ref> is a learning center part of the ] system. University College delivers courses and programs through a variety of modalities, including the traditional classroom, interactive television (ITV), video conferencing, online, and blended classes that use a variety of these modalities. The '''University College at Rumford/Mexico'''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.learn.maine.edu/rumfordmexico|title=UC 404 - University College|website=University College|access-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> is a part of the ] system.


] is Rumford's ]. ] is Rumford's ] ].


== Notable people == == Notable people ==
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· All others will be deleted. · All others will be deleted.
--> -->
* ], Olympic biathlete
{{div col}}
* ], weight-lifting world record-holder * ], weight-lifting world record-holder
* ], former Maine Democratic Party Chair and lobbyist * ], former Maine Democratic Party Chair and lobbyist
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* ], Maine State Representative; Maine State Senator * ], Maine State Representative; Maine State Senator
* ], offensive tackle for the 1947 champion ] * ], offensive tackle for the 1947 champion ]
* ], songwriter and film composer (], ]) * ], songwriter and film composer (], ])
* ], Minority Leader of the Maine House of Representative * ], Minority Leader of the Maine House of Representative
* ], Mayor of Portland, Maine and State Representative * ], Mayor of Portland, Maine and State Representative
* ], state legislator
* ], singer and songwriter * ], singer and songwriter
* ], US Senator, ], 64th ] * ], US senator, ], 64th ]
* ], Maine State Representative; Maine State Senator * ], Maine State Representative; Maine State Senator
* ], cross-country skier in ] * ], cross-country skier in ]
* ], professional ice-hockey player and in Olympic Games * ], professional ice-hockey player and in Olympic Games
{{div col end}}


==References== ==References==
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==External links== ==External links==
{{commons category|Rumford, Maine}} {{commons category|Rumford, Maine}}
* *
* *
* *
*
* *


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] ]
] ]
]

Latest revision as of 00:56, 17 September 2024

Town in the state of Maine, United States

Town in Maine, United States
Rumford, Maine
Town
Congress Street in downtown RumfordCongress Street in downtown Rumford
Official seal of Rumford, MaineSeal
Location of Rumford, MaineLocation of Rumford, Maine
Coordinates: 44°33′N 70°33′W / 44.550°N 70.550°W / 44.550; -70.550
CountryUnited States
StateMaine
CountyOxford
Settled1782
Incorporated (town)February 21, 1800
Area
 • Total69.85 sq mi (180.91 km)
 • Land68.55 sq mi (177.54 km)
 • Water1.30 sq mi (3.37 km)
Population
 • Total5,858
 • Density85/sq mi (33.0/km)
Time zoneUTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-4 (EDT)
Area code207

Rumford is a town in Oxford County, Maine, United States. Rumford is included in the Lewiston-Auburn, Maine metropolitan New England city and town area. The population was 5,858 at the 2020 census. Rumford is home to both ND Paper Inc's Rumford Mill and the Black Mountain of Maine ski resort.

History

Bird's-eye view of Rumford Falls in 1905

Originally called New Pennacook Plantation, the township was granted in 1779 to Timothy Walker, Jr. and associates of Concord, New Hampshire. Both Pennacook and Rumford are former names of Concord, from which many early settlers arrived. The first pioneers, however, were Jonathan Keyes and his son Francis in 1782 from Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. Incorporated in 1800, the town would later annex land from Peru and Franklin Plantation.

Located in the foothills of the White Mountains, Rumford is the site of Pennacook Falls, called by historian George J. Varney "the grandest cataract in New England," where the Androscoggin River drops 177 feet (54 m) over solid granite. Bands of St. Francis Indians once hunted and fished here, where salmon spawn in the 13-acre (5.3 ha) pool below Upper Falls, a barrier that fish cannot pass. Indians also came here to trade furs brought from the lakes region. Sawmills and gristmills were built to harness water power from the falls, although Rumford would remain primarily agricultural during its first 100 years.

In 1882, industrialist Hugh J. Chisholm recognized the falls' potential for the manufacture of paper. Chisholm directed construction of the Portland and Rumford Falls Railway connecting Rumford to the national rail network in 1892. The first paper mill began operation in 1893, drawing an infusion of people and money into the sleepy community of about 200 residents. Oxford Paper Company, owned by Chisholm, would dominate Rumford's riverfront and economy.

Much of the mill town was built in the spurt of prosperity between approximately 1890 and 1920, and Rumford retains significant Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Most notable is Strathglass Park, perhaps the finest company housing in the nation at that time. Wishing to avoid the stacked slums endemic at Lowell and Lawrence, Massachusetts, Hugh Chisholm commissioned Cass Gilbert in 1900 to plan a 30-acre (12 ha) site in his company town, instructing the prominent architect that "We will build of brick and stone and slate, and we will provide not merely for a house, but for comfort, elegance and social gratification."

Named after the seat of Clan Chisholm at Strathglass Carries, Scotland, Gilbert in 1901 produced 5 different designs for 51 duplexes. The same year, Chisholm founded The Rumford Realty Company to build the oval-shaped development, its entrance marked by an imposing granite gateway. With attractive lawns and broad, tree-lined streets, all maintenance was provided by the Oxford Paper Company. Even valet service was included. Tenants paid a rent of $9.00 per month, plus $1.00 per month for electricity to the Rumford Falls Power Company, also belonging to Chisholm. In 1948 with the dissolution of the Rumford Realty Company, the existing duplex buildings were first offered for sale to the tenant of the two with the longest residency. But later, each half of the single building was sold creating two owners of each building. Recognized for unique architectural and social merit, in 1974 Strathglass Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places as a historic district. Unfortunately due to lack of maintenance since that year of private sale, and due to a general deterioration of the brick and concrete materials, as well as the fact that nearly all existing buildings are owned by two independent and generally non-collaborative owners has caused each building to look like two halves, each painted differently, each maintained and repaired differently instead of the single duplex originally designed so that the entire development has taken on the look of a run-down, slummy group of buildings. A major factor in this impression is also that the development was designed before the advent of the personal automobile, but to accommodate those automobiles since then the lawns have been converted to make-shift parking lots for multiple vehicles.

Today, much of the history of Rumford is preserved by the Rumford Historical Society. Founded in 1961, under the sponsorship of prominent residents Louis Thibodeau, Minerva Anderson and Jonathan Mackenzie, the society pledges to preserve the rich history of the western mill town and encourage community involvement among all.

  • The Strathglass Building in 1907 The Strathglass Building in 1907
  • Pennacook Falls c. 1905 Pennacook Falls c. 1905
  • Public library c. 1907, a Carnegie library Public library c. 1907, a Carnegie library
  • Strathglass Park housing c. 1910 Strathglass Park housing c. 1910

In June 1941, the cabin cruiser "The Don" sunk off of Harpswell, Maine with 34 residents of Rumford on board. It remains the largest loss of life in the town's history. The cause of the wreck was never determined but multiple theories abound as to the vessel's demise including it being sunk by a U-boat or an insurance scheme. The only communication from the boat was shortly after it left port when a radio distress call came out to nearby ships with a voice saying "If I don't get off this boat somebody's gonna get thumped."

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 69.85 square miles (180.91 km), of which 68.55 square miles (177.54 km) is land and 1.30 square miles (3.37 km) is water. Rumford is located where the Concord, Ellis, and Swift rivers drain into the Androscoggin river. Black Mountain, elevation 2,133 feet (650 m), and Rumford Whitecap, elevation 2,197 feet (670 m), are in the north.

Climate

This climatic region has large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Rumford has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

Climate data for Rumford, Maine
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 27
(−3) 		29
(−2) 		39
(4) 		51
(11) 		65
(18) 		74
(23) 		80
(27) 		77
(25) 		69
(21) 		58
(14) 		43
(6) 		30
(−1) 		53
(12)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 8
(−13) 		9
(−13) 		20
(−7) 		32
(0) 		42
(6) 		51
(11) 		57
(14) 		54
(12) 		47
(8) 		37
(3) 		27
(−3) 		14
(−10) 		33
(1)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 2.9
(74) 		2.6
(66) 		3.4
(86) 		3.2
(81) 		3.3
(84) 		3.4
(86) 		3.6
(91) 		3.2
(81) 		3.6
(91) 		3.2
(81) 		3.5
(89) 		3.1
(79) 		39.1
(990)
Source: Weatherbase

Demographics

See also: Rumford (CDP), Maine
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1800262—
1810629140.1%
182087138.5%
18301,12629.3%
18401,44428.2%
18501,375−4.8%
18601,3750.0%
18701,212−11.9%
18801,006−17.0%
1890898−10.7%
19003,770319.8%
19106,77779.8%
19208,57626.5%
193010,34020.6%
194010,230−1.1%
19509,954−2.7%
196010,0050.5%
19709,363−6.4%
19808,240−12.0%
19907,078−14.1%
20006,472−8.6%
20105,841−9.7%
20205,8580.3%
sources:

2010 census

As of the census of 2010, there were 5,841 people, 2,674 households, and 1,524 families living in the town. The population density was 85.2 inhabitants per square mile (32.9/km). There were 3,287 housing units at an average density of 48.0 per square mile (18.5/km). The racial makeup of the town was 97.2% White, 0.6% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.6% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.6% of the population.

There were 2,674 households, of which 24.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.8% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.0% were non-families. 34.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.76.

The median age in the town was 45.5 years. 20.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21% were from 25 to 44; 30.6% were from 45 to 64; and 20.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.4% male and 51.6% female.

2000 census

As of the census of 2000, there were 6,472 people, 2,876 households, and 1,754 families living in the town. The population density was 94.3 inhabitants per square mile (36.4/km). There were 3,280 housing units at an average density of 47.8 per square mile (18.5/km). The racial makeup of the town was 98.67% White, 0.11% Black or African American, 0.32% Native American, 0.26% Asian, 0.06% from other races, and 0.57% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.60% of the population.

There were 2,876 households, of which 26.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.4% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.0% were non-families. 33.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.78.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 23.1% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 21.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $27,639, and the median income for a family was $33,878. Males had a median income of $39,917 versus $20,632 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,701. About 12.4% of families and 16.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.9% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education

The University College at Rumford/Mexico is a part of the University of Maine system.

Mountain Valley High School is Rumford's public high school.

Notable people

References

  1. ^ "US Gazetteer files 2010". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved December 16, 2012.
  2. "Census - Geography Profile: Rumford town, Oxford County, Maine". Retrieved January 12, 2022.
  3. Coolidge, Austin J.; John B. Mansfield (1859). A History and Description of New England. Boston, Massachusetts: A.J. Coolidge. pp. 286–288. coolidge mansfield history description new england 1859.
  4. Varney, George J. (1886), Gazetteer of the state of Maine. Rumford, Boston: Russell
  5. Johnson, Ron (1985). The Best of Maine Railroads. Portland Litho. pp. 25–26, 41, 53, 55, 76–77&111–112.
  6. William Berry Lapham, History of Rumford, Oxford County, Maine: From Its First Settlement in 1779; published 1890.
  7. ^ Saisi, Kevin N. (December 2, 2007). "Historic Rumford: The History of Strathglass Park". rumfordfalls.blogspot.com. Retrieved April 13, 2018.
  8. "The Rumford Historical Society". Archived from the original on July 23, 2012. Retrieved July 27, 2012.
  9. "Black Mountain, ME - N44.58389° W70.63750°". www.topoquest.com. Retrieved April 13, 2018.
  10. "Rumford, Maine Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)". Weatherbase. Retrieved April 13, 2018.
  11. "Weatherbase.com". Weatherbase. 2013. Retrieved on October 4, 2013.
  12. "Fogler Library - Maine Census Population Totals - Database Search Results for Minor Civil Divisions". Archived from the original on September 29, 2011. Retrieved September 1, 2010. .
  13. "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved December 16, 2012.
  14. "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  15. "UC 404 - University College". University College. Retrieved April 13, 2018.

External links

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County seat: Paris
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