Self Storage Units in Gray, ME

Regional Insights of Gray and New Gloucester

Whether you’re relocating to a new city, downsizing, or renovating your home, KO Storage offers a practical way to temporarily store your belongings. Self-storage allows you to declutter your space, making the moving process more efficient and organized. This ensures that your possessions are safely stowed away until you’re ready to settle into your new home, making the transition smoother and less stressful. Moving and KO Storage work together to offer a flexible and convenient approach to managing your belongings during times of change. But we also want to help you get accustomed to your new area, that’s why we’ve done the research and assembled this Gray and New Gloucester city guide.

History of Gray and New Gloucester:

Gray and New Gloucester, nestled in Cumberland County, Maine, share a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque lakes and rivers. These natural features not only provided sustenance for early settlers but also fueled the growth of industries such as logging, farming, and milling. Gray, incorporated in 1778, derives its name from Thomas Gray, a proprietor who played a significant role in the town’s establishment. Initially inhabited by indigenous peoples, Gray gradually saw European settlers arriving in the 18th century, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. Its location along the Portland and Kennebec Railroad line in the 19th century further facilitated its growth, turning it into a bustling center for trade and commerce. The town of New Gloucester, situated adjacent to Gray, boasts a similarly storied past. Settled in the mid-18th century by pioneers predominantly of English descent, it was formally incorporated in 1774. New Gloucester’s history is marked by the establishment of a Shaker community in the early 19th century. The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, founded in 1783, became one of the most enduring and well-known Shaker communities in the United States. The Shakers, known for their craftsmanship and commitment to simplicity, left a lasting legacy in New Gloucester, with many of their buildings and artifacts preserved as part of the village’s historical heritage. Like many New England towns, New Gloucester was primarily agrarian, with farming and lumber industries driving its economy. Both Gray and New Gloucester played integral roles in the industrialization of Maine during the 19th century, with mills and factories springing up along their rivers and streams. However, like many rural communities, they faced economic challenges in the 20th century with the decline of traditional industries. Nevertheless, they have preserved their historical heritage, with numerous landmarks, museums, and cultural events celebrating their past.

Schools in Gray and New Gloucester:

In Gray, the Gray-New Gloucester School District oversees the public education system. The district includes several schools catering to different age groups. For elementary education, there’s the Russell Elementary School, providing a nurturing environment for young learners. Middle school students attend Gray-New Gloucester Middle School, where they transition into more comprehensive academic programs and extracurricular activities. Finally, Gray-New Gloucester High School offers a comprehensive high school experience, preparing students for college and careers through a diverse curriculum and extracurricular offerings. Similarly, New Gloucester is home to part of the Gray-New Gloucester School District. Students in New Gloucester attend the Memorial School for their elementary education and then transition to Gray-New Gloucester Middle School and Gray-New Gloucester High School, just like their peers in Gray. In addition to the primary and secondary schools, the area is enriched by higher education opportunities. Nearby, Lewiston hosts Bates College, a prestigious liberal arts college founded in 1855. Bates College offers undergraduate programs in various disciplines and is a significant educational and cultural resource for the region. Its presence contributes to the intellectual vibrancy and diversity of the area, attracting students and scholars from across the country and beyond.

Gray and New Gloucester’s Diverse and Robust Economy:

Gray and New Gloucester are relatively small towns in Maine, with fewer major corporations compared to larger urban areas. However, there are still businesses and establishments that contribute significantly to the local economy. Hannaford Supermarket & Pharmacy is a regional supermarket chain providing groceries and pharmacy services to residents in Gray and surrounding areas. Lowe’s Home Improvement offers a wide range of home improvement products, including appliances, tools, and building materials. Walmart Supercenter is a retail giant offering groceries, household goods, clothing, electronics, and more. Dunkin’ is a popular coffee and baked goods chain, Dunkin’ serves breakfast items, coffee, and snacks. Rite Aid is a pharmacy chain offering prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and health products. Cumberland Farms is a convenience store chain offering snacks, beverages, and fuel services. Hannaford Pharmacy provides pharmacy services and prescription medications to residents of New Gloucester. Dead River Company provides heating oil, propane, and other energy services to homes and businesses in the area. AutoZone is a retail chain specializing in automotive parts and accessories. Dollar Tree is a discount variety store offering household items, party supplies, and more for $1 or less. VIP Tires & Service offers automotive services, including tire sales, installations, and repairs. KeyBank is a financial institution providing banking, lending, and investment services to individuals and businesses. McDonald’s is a global fast-food chain known for its burgers, fries, and other quick-serve menu items. Subway is a sandwich shop chain offering made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Family Dollar is a discount retail chain offering a variety of household items, groceries, and personal care products.

Discover Gray and New Gloucester: A Blend of History, Culture, and Outdoor Charm:

Nature enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Both towns boast numerous parks and conservation areas ideal for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. Bradbury Mountain State Park, located in Pownal near New Gloucester, is a popular destination offering scenic trails, including the summit trail affording stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In Gray, the Libby Hill Forest Trails and the Crystal Lake Recreation Area provide serene settings for hiking, fishing, and nature walks. For history buffs, the area is rich in cultural heritage and historical sites. The Maine Wildlife Park in Gray is a unique destination where visitors can observe and learn about native Maine wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village in New Gloucester offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions of the Shaker community through guided tours, workshops, and demonstrations. Food enthusiasts will delight in the local culinary scene, which features a variety of dining options ranging from cozy cafes to family-owned restaurants serving traditional New England fare. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, hearty stews, and homemade pies at eateries dotted throughout both towns, providing a taste of authentic Maine cuisine. Outdoor recreational activities abound in both Gray and New Gloucester. The Androscoggin River offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, while nearby lakes provide tranquil settings for boating and swimming during the warmer months. In the winter, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are popular pastimes, with trails winding through the scenic countryside.