Limestone, Maine is a close-knit community located in northern Aroostook County, known for its rich history, wide-open landscapes, and strong sense of local pride. Incorporated in 1869 and named after the region’s natural limestone deposits, the town has grown from its early agricultural roots into a unique blend of heritage, innovation, and rural charm.
The town’s early development was shaped by farming, forestry, and small industry, with settlers drawn to the area’s natural resources and fertile land. Over time, Limestone established itself as an important part of Aroostook County’s economy and culture. Today, that legacy continues through a community that values hard work, resilience, and connection to the land.
A defining chapter in Limestone’s history began in the early 1950s with the opening of Loring Air Force Base. Built during the Cold War, the base quickly became one of the largest Strategic Air Command installations in the United States, playing a key role in national defense due to its strategic location as one of the closest points in the continental U.S. to Europe.
At its peak, the base brought thousands of military personnel and families to the area, significantly boosting the local population and economy. However, following the end of the Cold War, Loring Air Force Base was officially closed in 1994, marking a major transition for the town.
Since the closure of the base, Limestone has continued to evolve. The former base has been repurposed into the Loring Commerce Centre, supporting business development, aviation, and industrial use. This transformation reflects the town’s commitment to adapting and creating new opportunities while honoring its past.
Limestone is also home to the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, a nationally recognized public residential high school that attracts students from across the state. The presence of this institution highlights the town’s ongoing investment in education and future generations.
Residents of Limestone enjoy a peaceful, rural lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. The area offers access to outdoor recreation year-round, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, hiking, and hunting. The region’s long winters and scenic countryside also make it a destination for winter sports and seasonal events.
With its low population density and welcoming atmosphere, Limestone provides a safe and supportive environment for families, businesses, and visitors alike. Community events, local organizations, and town services all contribute to a strong sense of belonging and civic pride.
While rooted in history, Limestone continues to look toward the future. Ongoing efforts to attract new businesses, support residents, and maintain essential services demonstrate the town’s resilience and forward-thinking approach. Whether you are visiting, investing, or considering making Limestone your home, you will find a community that values its past while embracing new possibilities.
The Town Office in Limestone offers a wide range of essential municipal services for residents, businesses, and visitors. These services typically include motor vehicle registrations, dog licensing, hunting and fishing licenses, tax payments and information, vital records (birth, death, and marriage certificates), and general assistance with town-related inquiries. The office also supports elections, voter registration, and provides access to public documents and forms.
The Town Office observes standard federal and state holidays throughout the year. These commonly include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Patriots’ Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Columbus Day), Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Holiday closures may vary slightly each year, so residents are encouraged to check the town website or contact the office in advance.
The Limestone Town Office is located at 93 Main Street, Limestone, Maine. Office hours typically follow a weekday schedule, though hours may vary by department or season. For the most accurate and up-to-date hours of operation, residents should visit the town website or contact the office directly.
To report a road concern, pothole, or maintenance issue, residents should contact the Town Office directly by phone or visit in person. Providing detailed information—such as the exact location, type of issue, and any safety concerns—helps ensure a faster and more accurate response. In urgent situations involving hazards or safety risks, residents should contact emergency services.
Residents can contact the Select Board or Town Manager through the Town Office. Messages can typically be submitted by phone, email, or in writing. Many towns also provide contact forms or directories on their website listing official contact information. Attending public meetings is another way to communicate directly and stay involved in local decision-making.
Local ordinances, policies, and regulations are usually available on the Town of Limestone’s official website or at the Town Office. These documents may include zoning ordinances, land use regulations, and municipal policies. Residents can review these materials online or request copies in person for more detailed information.
Meeting agendas and approved minutes for the Select Board and other committees are typically posted on the town’s website. These documents provide transparency into local government decisions and upcoming discussions. Physical copies may also be available at the Town Office for public review.
To request public records, residents should contact the Town Office and submit a request either in person, by mail, or electronically if available. Requests should clearly describe the information being sought to help staff process them efficiently. Access to public records is governed by Maine’s Freedom of Access Act (FOAA), and certain fees or processing times may apply depending on the request.
Experience the charm of small-town Maine living with access to scenic beauty, friendly neighbors, and a strong sense of community.