Downeast Maine is located at the easternmost edge of the continental US and at the 45th Parallel . It overlooks and is exposed to the vastness and fury of the Atlantic Ocean . In some ways , Downeast Maine is at the edge of the world . In other ways , it is at the center of a wonderland of natural resources and scenic beauty .
geographies along the entire coast of New England and Canada ’ s Maritime Provinces , an area that closely corresponds to the historical French territory of l ’ Acadie or Acadia . Nowadays the term is relational with Boston as the referent for determining what is “ Downeast ”. In Maine , “ Down East ” is most often defined as the easternmost coastal section of the state , roughly between the Penobscot River and the St . Croix Rivers and encompassing Washington and Hancock Counties . And , to many , the “ real Downeast ” begins with the Schoodic region , at the Hancock / Sullivan bridge on Taunton Bay . This is the western edge of a more rural landscape , an economy still reliant on commercial fisheries , and a people who necessarily embody a more “ rugged ,” resilient personality .
Above : West Quoddy Head Lighthouse - West Quoddy Head Lighthouse sits on the easternmost point of the continental US and welcomes the day ’ s first rays of sunlight . The red and white striped lighthouse is the only “ candy striped ” tower in the Nation . During its lifetime the lamp has been illuminated with whale oil , lard oil , kerosene and electricity . Full automation eventually eliminated need for a resident Keeper . The first floor of the lightkeeper ’ s residence , which housed generations of light-keeping families , is now occupied by a visitor center featuring interactive displays , historic photos and information , and a gallery of local artists . Photo by Jerry Monkman .
48