How Maine’s Iconic ‘207’ Area Code Came to Be

For many locals and visitors, Maine has a few identifying markers. Many relate Maine to moose or lobster. Others are very familiar with the state's nickname, Vacationland. And then there is Maine's only area code, 207, which has become another iconic symbol for the state. But how did that area code come to be?

It Hasn't Been Around as Long as You Think

Area codes have only been around since the invention of long-distance telephone calls. Once upon a time, calling someone locally required a human conversation with an operator. But as long distance telephone calls began to take shape, the predominant phone company at the time, AT&T, wanted to create a numbering plan area system.

In 1945, that numbering plan area system was unveiled, with each area identified by a three-digit code. AT&T required every middle digit to be a 0 or a 1. A 1 would cover a major city or province, and a 0 would be assigned if it was covering an entire state.

Why Maine Ended Up With 207

If you're looking for a clear-cut reason why Maine ended up with 207 as an area code, there isn't one. When AT&T delivered with the numbering plan, they strategically numbered states and regions in hope of avoiding any confusion for both users as well as operators.

For instance, area code 205 is for the state of Alabama. Area code 206 was given to the state of Washington. Even if someone making a call was confused by the area code system, an operator could clearly distinguish between the region and help necessitate the call.

Why Maine Continues to Hold Tight to 207

Years back, phone providers warned that Maine was close to running out of 207 numbers and may have to be granted a second area code. Since then, the state has worked to delay that inevitable outcome, as the area code 207 has become part of the fabric of Maine.

Only 14 other states have more than one area code. Many of the 36 states with one area code are facing the same dilemma Maine is, as numbers get exhausted. For now, Mainers continue to clutch the 207 code as a pseudo-identity. When Maine does get another area code, there's some interesting numbers available.

Would 707 make Maine happy? It could be next.