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Atkinson, Maine

Historic township on Alder Stream

Overview

Atkinson is an unorganized township east of Dover-Foxcroft where Alder Stream once powered sawmills and gristmills that sustained early settlers. First settled in 1804 and incorporated in 1819, the community voted to deorganize in 2019, becoming part of Maine's unorganized territory while maintaining its character as a quiet rural community.

Key Facts

Population 285
Region Maine Highlands
County Piscataquis
Founded 1804
Nearest City Dover-Foxcroft (15 minutes)

What Atkinson Is Known For

Atkinson Local Highlights

Early Piscataquis Settlement
Atkinson was among the first communities settled in Piscataquis County, with pioneers arriving in 1804—just four years after the county's earliest settlements. The township was named for Judge Atkinson, a major landowner.
Alder Stream Mills
In 1807, the Colcord brothers from Bangor built a grist mill and saw mill on Alder Stream, establishing the industrial foundation that supported early settlement and the community's growth.
Recent Deorganization
After multiple votes, Atkinson officially deorganized on July 1, 2019, surrendering its town status to become part of Maine's unorganized territory—one of several small Maine communities to make this choice in recent years.
Mormon Pioneer Connection
Edward Bunker, born in Atkinson, became a prominent Mormon pioneer who founded Bunkerville, Nevada, linking this small Maine township to the westward expansion of the 19th century.

Things to Do

1
Fish Alder Stream
The stream that once powered the township's mills now provides excellent fishing for brook trout in its cold, clear waters.
2
Hunt the Piscataquis Wilderness
The surrounding forests support healthy populations of deer, moose, turkey, and grouse, drawing hunters each fall to this lightly populated region.
3
Explore Sebec Lake Region
Nearby Sebec Lake offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities just a short drive from Atkinson.
4
Snowmobile the Trail Network
Winter opens access to the regional trail system connecting Atkinson to communities throughout Piscataquis County.
5
Experience Rural Maine
Atkinson offers an authentic glimpse of rural Maine life—farming, forestry, and small-community character largely unchanged from earlier generations.

Living in Atkinson

Atkinson represents a path many small Maine communities have considered—deorganization. After voting 187-19 in favor of surrendering town status, Atkinson became unorganized territory in 2019, with services now provided by the county and state. The community retains its rural character, with residents who value the quiet, affordable lifestyle that comes with living off the beaten path. Dover-Foxcroft, just 15 minutes away, provides necessary shopping and services.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm days, cool nights, 65-78°F

winter

Very cold with deep snow, 5-25°F

spring

Extended mud season, 32-52°F

fall

Colorful and crisp, 38-58°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

White-tailed deer Moose Wild turkey Ruffed grouse Brook trout Black bear Beaver

How to Get There

Atkinson is located east of Dover-Foxcroft via Route 150, about 15 minutes from town. The area covers nearly 39 square miles of rolling hills and forestland.

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

Satellite preview

Atkinson outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Atkinson deorganize?

Like many small Maine communities, Atkinson found that maintaining town government with a small tax base became increasingly difficult. Residents voted 187-19 to surrender town status, and the township officially deorganized on July 1, 2019.

What was Atkinson named for?

The township was named for Judge Atkinson, who was a major landowner in the area during the early settlement period. He also donated a small library to the community.

When was Atkinson first settled?

Settlement began in 1804, making it one of the earlier communities in Piscataquis County. The township was incorporated on February 12, 1819.

Nearby Towns

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Maine Highlands Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature