One of the Biggest Names in Literature Grew up in One of the Smallest Towns in Maine

So many big people come from very small towns, and that's true for one of the most well-known names in literature. Stephen King grew up in Durham, Maine during the 1950s-1960s, and although it's changed over the years, there's a lot that has remained the same. Come with us as we explore the quintessential New England town that's home to one of our country's most prolific authors.

What is Durham, Maine like?

Durham is a small town in Maine located near the bigger and more well-known towns of Brunswick, New Gloucester, and Lisbon. In 2020, Durham Maine's population was only 4,173. And even though that seems low, it's grown a lot since Stephen King's childhood. In small-town Durham, the simple things in life are the best. The town is situated along the Oyster River and boasts a picturesque tree-lined downtown—but there's an undercurrent of mystery, too. One could easily imagine one of King's novels taking place in such a setting.

Places That May Have Inspired Stephen King

One of the top nature escapes in Durham, Maine is Runaround Pond. There is both a small and large loop trail around the pond. On these trails are historic cellar holes and retaining walls of the old mill. When King was a child in the 1950s and 1960s, this land was all private and considered dangerous, as the mill slowly collapsed into the stream over time. Now, you can visit and eat a picnic lunch on the shores while watching beavers, otters, eagles, herons, frogs, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Although King knew this area was privately owned, he still explored it with his friends and drew a lot of inspiration from it for his books. His short story "The Body," which was adapted into the movie "Stand By Me," includes a scene with the kids swimming in Runaround Pond and getting attacked by leeches. This scene was inspired by King's childhood memories. Other historic buildings in the town may have had an impact on King's storytelling.

Shiloh Temple was built in 1897. At its prime, Shiloh Temple was a grand complex with more than 500 rooms and 1,000 residents who lived under the direction of Frank Sanford, an ordained Baptist who claimed to be the new Elijah.

Durham is a neighboring town to Pownal, Maine, another quiet historic escape. The Pownal Cattle Pound was used to keep stray livestock from wandering until it could be returned to its owners. In King's book "Dead Zone," the lead character is from Pownal.

Of course, Stephen King doesn't live in Durham, Maine anymore. But, that doesn't mean it isn't worth a trip. Durham is a great destination in all seasons. Take a hike during fall at Runaround Pond to see the beautiful foliage, or visit in winter to go ice skating on it, like the characters in "Dead Zone."

If you're a huge Stephen King fan, then seeing where he grew up is a must. It will be easy to identify where his inspiration came from. And if you're looking for a place to stay there is a lovely bed and breakfast on an alpaca farm and a glampground for glorified camping! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to Maine using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.