Houlton, County seat in Aroostook County, Maine, United States.
Houlton is a county seat in Aroostook County, Maine, covering approximately 37 square kilometers (14 square miles). The Meduxnekeag River divides it into northern and southern sections, creating natural geographic divisions within the town.
The town was founded in 1807 by settlers Aaron Putnam and Joseph Houlton and soon became a significant trade center. It played a key role during the 1839 Aroostook War, when border disputes between the United States and Britain threatened the region.
The annual Houlton Agricultural Fair brings together farmers, craftspeople, and residents to showcase regional agricultural products and traditional practices. This gathering reflects the strong farming heritage and close-knit community character of the region.
Interstate 95 runs through the town, providing direct connections to southern Maine and the broader eastern United States. The layout works well for travelers passing through, and visitors can easily explore local amenities and services.
During World War I, Houlton housed the first United States radio station dedicated to intercepting transatlantic communications. This facility played a surprising role in military intelligence by monitoring German diplomatic messages.
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