Lincoln County, Maine is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, drawing in numerous visitors and residents. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that safety levels can vary across different parts of the county.
Based on the most recent crime data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and NeighborhoodScout, here are the top five neighborhoods in Lincoln County, Maine with higher crime rates:
Waldoboro
This town, with a population of around 5,000, has the highest rate of violent crime in the county, at 59.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. It also experiences a high rate of property crime, with 892.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is more than double the state average of 416.2.
Furthermore, in 1773, it was renamed Waldoboro after Samuel Waldo, a wealthy merchant from Boston who brought German immigrants to the area.
Waldoboro is renowned for its history in shipbuilding and pottery, and boasts numerous historic buildings and museums, including the Waldoboro Historical Society Museum, the Old German Meeting House, and the Waldoborough Town House.
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Boothbay Harbor
This coastal town, with a population of around 2,300 people, is a popular tourist spot. However, it also has a high rate of crime. Boothbay Harbor has a violent crime rate of 136.1 per 1,000 residents, which is the second-highest in the county and over 12 times the state average of 11.3.
The property crime rate is 589.8 per 1,000 residents, which is also higher than the state average. Originally inhabited by the Abenaki people, they called it Winnegance.
Boothbay Harbor was officially incorporated in 1889, and it grew into a hub for fishing and shipbuilding. The town offers various attractions, including the Maine State Aquarium, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, the Boothbay Railway Village, and the Opera House at Boothbay Harbor.
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Wiscasset
This town, with a population of approximately 3,800, serves as the county seat and is the largest town in Lincoln County. It experiences a high level of crime, with a violent crime rate of 54.1 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 622.1 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Originally named Pownalborough in honor of Governor Thomas Pownall, it was the location of the first courthouse in Maine. In 1802, it was renamed Wiscasset, derived from the Abenaki term meaning “place of the little fishes”.
Wiscasset is renowned for its historic architecture, particularly the Federal-style mansions that grace Main Street.
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Damariscotta
This town, with a population of around 2,000, serves as the central hub for the county and hosts the annual Pumpkinfest. However, it also faces a high level of crime, with a violent crime rate of 46.5 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,138.5 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Incorporated in 1848 under the name Damariscotta, which derives from the Wawenock language and means “place of many fishes,” the town is a lively community boasting numerous shops, galleries, eateries, and cultural destinations like the Lincoln Theater, the Maine Art Gallery, and the Skidompha Library.
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Newcastle
This small town, with a population of around 1,700, is located next to Damariscotta and faces similar crime issues. Newcastle has a violent crime rate of 45.3 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,637.9 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Originally named Sheepscot Plantation, it was where the final battle of King William’s War took place in 1697. It was officially established as Newcastle, in honor of the Duke of Newcastle, in 1753.
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Final Words
The latest available data shows that these five neighborhoods in Lincoln County, Maine, are considered the most dangerous. However, it’s important to note that crime rates can fluctuate and may differ based on the source and assessment methods. It’s always recommended to verify the most recent information and be cautious when visiting or residing in any area.
