Madison, Maine

A historic mill town on the Kennebec.

Overview

Madison is a historic mill town situated along the shores of the Kennebec River in Somerset County's Western Foothills. First settled by English colonists around 1773 under the name "Norridgewock Falls," the area was later called "Bernardstown" after the major landholding Bernard family. Officially incorporated on March 7, 1804, the town was renamed Madison in honor of President James Madison. The town's industrial heritage centers on its paper mill, which has been a major employer for generations. Today, Madison balances its manufacturing legacy with access to Lake Wesserunsett and the Kennebec River's recreational opportunities.

Key Facts

Population 4,726

Region Kennebec Valley

County Somerset

Founded 1804

Nearest City Waterville (30 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Madison Is Known For

Madison Local Highlights

Lake Wesserunsett

Beautiful 1,377-acre lake offering fishing, boating, swimming, and lakeside recreation with multiple access points and beaches.

Kennebec River Location

Prime location along the historic Kennebec River corridor, providing fishing, kayaking, and riverside trails in the Western Foothills.

Paper Mill Heritage

Long-standing paper manufacturing tradition that has shaped the town's economy and character for over a century.

Lakewood Theater Proximity

Near America's oldest continually operating summer theater in neighboring Skowhegan, offering world-class performances.

Things to Do

Fish and Boat Lake Wesserunsett

Enjoy excellent fishing for bass, perch, and pickerel on this 1,377-acre lake with public boat launches and swimming beaches.

Kayak the Kennebec River

Paddle the historic Kennebec River through scenic countryside, exploring the waterway that powered Madison's early mills.

Explore Historic Downtown

Walk through Madison's downtown district featuring historic brick buildings and local businesses reflecting the town's mill town heritage.

Hike Riverside Trails

Discover walking and nature trails along the Kennebec River and around Lake Wesserunsett for outdoor recreation.

Living in Madison

Madison offers affordable small-town living with a strong sense of community and working-class roots. The town of 4,726 residents provides good schools, recreation on Lake Wesserunsett, and reasonable proximity to Waterville and Skowhegan for shopping and services. Housing is affordable, and the community maintains traditional Maine values while adapting to changing economic conditions.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 68-82°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 10-28°F

spring

Cool, 40-58°F

fall

Beautiful, 45-62°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

White-tailed Deer Moose Black Bears Bald Eagles

How to Get There

Madison is located in Somerset County along Route 201A and Route 148, approximately 30 minutes north of Waterville and 20 minutes southeast of Skowhegan. From Interstate 95, take Exit 127 in Waterville and follow Route 201 north, then Route 148 to Madison. The town sits at 44°47'52"N, 69°52'47"W along the Kennebec River.

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

Satellite preview

Madison outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Madison's paper mill still operating?

Yes, Madison has a long paper manufacturing heritage that continues to be an important part of the local economy, though the industry has evolved over the decades.

Can I swim in Lake Wesserunsett?

Yes, Lake Wesserunsett offers public swimming beaches and is a popular spot for families to enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the summer months.

How far is Madison from Augusta?

Madison is approximately 45 minutes north of Augusta via Route 201, making it accessible to the state capital while maintaining its small-town character.