Tremont, Maine
Tremont, Maine, part of Hancock County, includes Bass Harbor, Bernard, Center, Gotts Island, Seal Cove, and West Tremont. These are small quiet fishing communities with many nice coastal and interior views. The approximate population is 1,544 (per year 2020 census, a decrease of 19 from the 1,563 recorded in the 2010 census) and it covers 10,329 acres or 52.36 sq. miles (16.83 sq. miles land versus 35.53 sq. miles water). This southwestern part of Mount Desert Island is often referred to as being on the “quiet” or “back” side as it is on the opposite side of the busiest and more commercial section of Mount Desert Island which includes the well known Bar Harbor resort area.
Tremont, Maine GPS: 44.253951, -68.351648
Tremont History
Tremont, Maine was first settled in 1762. It was incorporated on June 3, 1848 as Mansel, a name first given by a company of emigrants led by John Winthrop in 1630 when Maine was actually part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The name was quickly changed to the French word Tremont (meaning “three mountains”) just two months later. The three mountains refer to the contiguous peaks of Beech Mountain, and the East and West peaks of Western Mountains. In the late 17th century, it was believed that “accused” and executed pirate, Captain Kidd, buried some of his treasure on the Maine coast and one place was Dog Mountain in Tremont. One historical account said “Dog Mountain has been carefully prospected with spade and pick, for money hidden by Captain Kidd.” (None was found.) The most well-known village within Tremont is Bass Harbor. Bass Harbor Head Light, in Acadia National Park, is perhaps the most famous landmark.
Directions: The most direct way from Ellsworth on the mainland is to take Route 3 South to Mount Desert Island. Immediately when getting to the island, go straight ahead onto Route 198 (veering left on Route 3 goes to Bar Harbor). Continue South through Somesville and then Southwest Harbor eventually arriving in Tremont and the village of Bass Harbor to the left on 102A.
More Information
- Bass Harbor Memorial Library: (207) 244-3798
89 Bernard Road, Bernard, ME 04612-0066
Hours: Tues. & Thurs. 1 -7, Wed. & Sat. 9 - 1 - Tremont Town Office: (207) 244-7204 Website
20 Harbor Dr., Route 102A, Bass Harbor, ME 04612 - Fire Department (Volunteer): (207) 244-7911
(via Dispatch Center in Southwest Harbor)
Keith Higgins, Fire Chief (noted April 20, 2013)
- Emergencies: Dial 911
- Ambulance: Southwest Harbor/Tremont Nursing (207) 244-7685
- Churches & Synagogues (Regional)
- Chamber of Commerce: (207) 244-9264
- Golf Courses (Regional)
- Island Explorer Shuttle Bus Service for Mount Desert Island
Including Acadia National Park (seasonal)
Life on the “Quiet Side”
In a way, it is not surprising that few visitors to Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island are familiar with the name of Tremont directly. They are, however, indirectly by being familiar with the Village of Bass Harbor, or at least Bass Harbor Head Light which are both in Tremont, Maine. The map above shows its location on the opposite side of the island from Bar Harbor. I enjoy my trips here as there is less traffic and more open spaces. If you can, consider checking this area out and make sure to bring the camera. To get a better idea as to what is available here to see and experience, view the photos that are accessed from each village’s main page.