📍 Location & Geography
West Hatfield is a small, charming community located in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is a part of Hampshire County and is situated in the western part of the state. The community is nestled in the Pioneer Valley, a region known for its rich farmland, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultural life.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for West Hatfield are approximately 42.3918° N latitude and 72.6751° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Hatfield is a part of the New England region of the United States. It is a subsection of the larger town of Hatfield, which covers an area of 24.6 square miles. The community is located in the western part of Massachusetts, close to the Connecticut River, which forms the boundary between Massachusetts and the neighboring state of Vermont.
👥 Population & Demographics
As West Hatfield is a small community within the larger town of Hatfield, its population is included in the total count for Hatfield. As of the 2010 census, Hatfield had a population of approximately 3,279 people. The demographics of the town are predominantly white, with a small percentage of the population being of Hispanic, Asian, African American, and other ethnicities.
🏛️ History
West Hatfield, as a part of Hatfield, shares its rich history. Hatfield was originally settled in 1659 as a part of Hadley, another Massachusetts town. It was incorporated as a separate entity in 1670. The town is known for its historic homes, some of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Farming has long been a significant part of the local economy, and the fertile land of the Pioneer Valley has supported generations of farmers.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
West Hatfield is known for its scenic beauty, characterized by lush farmland, rolling hills, and the nearby Connecticut River. The community is home to several parks and natural areas, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and bird watching. The region’s fertile soil supports a variety of plant and animal life, contributing to the area’s biodiversity.
🏫 Education
Education in West Hatfield is managed by the Hatfield Public Schools district, which serves the entire town of Hatfield. The district operates an elementary school and a combined junior/senior high school. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities in the nearby area, including the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Smith College.
🚧 Transportation
West Hatfield is served by several major roads, including Interstate 91 and Route 5, which provide easy access to nearby cities and towns. The community is also within a short driving distance of Bradley International Airport in Connecticut for air travel. Public transportation services are provided by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, which operates bus routes throughout the region.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Hatfield, along with the rest of Hatfield, celebrates the annual Hatfield Harvest Festival. This event showcases local agriculture and crafts, with activities like hayrides, pumpkin picking, and a farmers market. The town is also known for its historic Strawberry Supper, a community meal that has been a tradition for over a century.