When most people hear of Orono, Maine the first and usually only thing that comes to mind is the college town for the flagship campus of University of Maine. Many people do not know other facts about Orono, but Orono has some interesting history. it may not be the most happening place in the state but it certainly has its perks!
1. The town is named after Chief Joseph Orono, a sachem of the Penobscot Nation which is very close to Orono.
2. Part of the town is on an "island" while the rest is on the mainland.
The Stillwater River (a branch of the Penobscot) divides the town, so the University resides on Marsh Island while most of the rest of the town is on the mainland.
3. The Pat's Pizza in Orono is the original restaurant of the chain that is now located throughout Maine.
It was originally an ice cream shop, but in the 1930s the owner started introducing pizza. The building and interior has hardly changed at all.
4. The town has a 1-mile long boardwalk called the "Bog walk" which shows visitors a beautiful Maine bog with nature.
It first was available in 2003.
5. Ayers Island, which is home to former Striar Textile Mill, which has not operated since 1996 is said to be haunted with multiple ghost stories circulating.
The TV show"Celebrity Paranormal Project" did an epsidoe there in 2006. The island is located 2 miles from the university campus but it is considered trespassing to try to go there.
