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Cary Plantation, Maine

Named for a lumberman and congressman

Overview

Cary Plantation is a quiet farming community in southern Aroostook County, settled in 1824 and named for Shepard Cary—lumberman, state legislator, and U.S. Congressman. The plantation borders New Brunswick, Canada, and maintains the agricultural traditions that have defined this region for nearly two centuries.

Key Facts

Population 125
Region Aroostook
County Aroostook
Founded 1824
Nearest City Houlton (20 minutes)

What Cary Plantation Is Known For

Cary Plantation Local Highlights

Shepard Cary Legacy
The plantation was named for Shepard Cary, a prominent lumberman who also served as a Maine State Legislator and U.S. Congressman, reflecting the intertwined nature of industry and politics in 19th-century Maine.
Early Settlement History
Settled in 1824, Cary was first organized as Number 11 R1 Plantation in 1859, then reorganized as Cary Plantation in 1883—a history preserved in plantation records dating back to 1835.
Canadian Border Community
Cary Plantation shares a border with Richmond in Carleton County, New Brunswick, making it one of many Aroostook communities with direct ties to Canada.
Potato Farming Heritage
Like much of Aroostook County, Cary has been shaped by potato farming, with the rolling hills and deep soil that made this region America's premier potato-growing area.

Things to Do

1
Experience Aroostook Agriculture
Drive through the plantation during growing season to see the potato fields that have sustained this community, with the rolling landscape stretching to the horizon.
2
Hunt the Border Country
The forests along the Canadian border provide excellent hunting for deer, moose, and upland birds, with far less pressure than more accessible areas.
3
Snowmobile to Canada
Winter connects Cary to the extensive trail network linking Aroostook County to New Brunswick, with cross-border riding opportunities.
4
Explore Houlton
The nearby county seat offers shopping, dining, and the Market Square Historic District, just 20 minutes from the plantation.
5
Fish Local Streams
Small streams running through the plantation support brook trout populations in their cold, clean waters.

Living in Cary Plantation

Cary Plantation offers affordable rural living in Aroostook County's agricultural heartland. The community has considered deorganization in recent years, reflecting the challenges facing small Maine communities, but continues to maintain plantation government. Residents value the quiet, affordable lifestyle and proximity to both Houlton's services and the Canadian border. Property taxes remain lower than in more developed areas, attracting those who want space and privacy.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm and pleasant, 65-78°F

winter

Very cold with heavy snow, -5 to 22°F

spring

Cool and muddy, 30-50°F

fall

Crisp with early frost, 35-55°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

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

How to Get There

Cary Plantation is located east of Houlton, accessible from Route 2. The plantation covers about 19 square miles of rolling farmland and forest, bordering New Brunswick, Canada.

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

Satellite preview

Cary Plantation outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Shepard Cary?

Shepard Cary was a prominent lumberman who also served in the Maine State Legislature and U.S. Congress. The plantation was named in his honor, reflecting his influence in the region during the 19th century.

Does Cary Plantation border Canada?

Yes. The plantation shares its eastern border with Richmond in Carleton County, New Brunswick, making it one of many Aroostook communities with international neighbors.

Has Cary considered deorganization?

Yes. Like many small Maine communities, Cary Plantation has voted on deorganization in recent years, though it continues to operate as an organized plantation.

Nearby Towns

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Aroostook Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature