Hancock County, incorporated in 1789, is now home to Acadia National Park, which is located on Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Point and Isle au Haut, although lumbering and ship building were important industries in Hancock County for many years.
Hancock County is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic coastline, mountains, islands, and areas set aside for recreation. Acadia National Park boasts 40 miles of rocky shoreline and the only fjord on the eastern seaboard.
Ellsworth, a major retail center, is the county seat of Hancock County.