Chebeague Island

After seceding from the town of Cumberland, Chebeague Island became Maine’s newest independent town on July 1, 2007.  The reason for the secession was to protect the future of its island elementary school, without which it would be extremely difficult to sustain a year-round population.  Historically, Chebeague was a famous shipbuilding center; its “stone sloops” transported granite up and down the coast.  Chebeague’s year-round population is approximately 360 people, with a summer population of approximately 1,600.