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Argyle, Maine

Scottish-named township on the Penobscot River

Overview

Argyle Township lies along the Penobscot River north of Old Town, where Route 116 follows the historic stage route toward Edinburg. The township includes numerous river islands, extensive forested wetlands, and the Birch Stream watershed. Originally settled in 1810, Argyle was incorporated as a town in 1839 but surrendered its organization in 1937.

Key Facts

Population 245
Region Maine Highlands
County Penobscot
Founded 1810
Nearest City Old Town (15 minutes)

What Argyle Is Known For

Argyle Local Highlights

Scottish Heritage
Argyle takes its name from the county in western Scotland, sharing Scottish origins with neighboring Edinburg. Early settlers from Scotland established communities along this stretch of the Penobscot.
Penobscot River Islands
The township includes numerous river islands—Sugar Island, Birch Islands, Hemlock Island, Cow Island, Foster Island, Jackson Island, Horse Island, and Freese Island among them.
Birch Stream Wetlands
The Birch Stream watershed provides critical habitat for fish and wildlife while buffering flood effects. The stream was historically important enough that Argyle was once called "Birch Stream Settlement."
Historic Stage Route
Route 116 follows the original stage route that connected Old Town to Edinburg, providing a historic corridor through this Penobscot River community.

Things to Do

1
Fish the Penobscot River
The Penobscot and its tributaries offer excellent fishing for bass, pickerel, and seasonal runs of salmon and shad in this historic river corridor.
2
Explore River Islands
Canoeists and kayakers can explore the numerous islands that dot the Penobscot as it flows through the township.
3
Hunt the Wetlands and Forests
The mix of forested uplands and wetland habitats supports healthy populations of deer, turkey, and waterfowl.
4
Paddle Birch Stream
This meandering stream through forested wetlands offers quiet paddling and wildlife viewing opportunities.
5
Drive the Historic Stage Route
Route 116 provides a scenic drive along the Penobscot, following the path of the original stage route from Old Town to Edinburg.

Living in Argyle

Argyle offers rural living along the Penobscot River with convenient access to Old Town and Bangor. The township surrendered its organization in 1937 when maintaining local government became impractical, but the community continues with services provided by the county and state. Property values remain reasonable compared to more developed areas, attracting residents who value privacy and river access. Old Town is just 15 minutes away for shopping and services.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm days, cool nights, 65-80°F

winter

Cold with moderate snow, 10-28°F

spring

Cool and wet, 35-55°F

fall

Colorful and crisp, 40-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

White-tailed deer Wild turkey Bald eagles Beaver Wood ducks Brook trout Moose

How to Get There

Argyle is located on Route 116 north of Old Town, following the Penobscot River toward Edinburg. The drive from Old Town takes about 15 minutes; from Bangor about 25 minutes.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Argyle outline

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Argyle get its name?

Argyle was named for the county in western Scotland. Along with neighboring Edinburg, it reflects the Scottish heritage of early settlers who came to this stretch of the Penobscot River in the early 1800s.

Why did Argyle deorganize?

After being incorporated as a town in 1839, Argyle surrendered its organization in 1937 when maintaining local government became impractical for the small population. It has since functioned as an unorganized township.

What was Argyle called before it became a town?

Before incorporation, the area was known by several names including "Old Indian Township Number 3 West of Penobscot River," the "Maine Literary and Theological Institute Grant," and most commonly "Birch Stream Settlement."

Nearby Towns

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Maine Highlands Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature