📍 Location & Geography
Erving is a town located in Franklin County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 90 miles west of Boston. It is nestled along the banks of the Millers River and is surrounded by a rich landscape of rolling hills and dense forests. The town covers a total area of 14.3 square miles, of which 0.3 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Erving, Massachusetts are approximately 42°36′N 72°24′W. The town is situated at an elevation of 341 feet above sea level.
🗺️ Region & Area
Erving is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located in the northern part of Franklin County and is bordered by the towns of Northfield to the east, Warwick to the north, Orange to the west, and Wendell to the south.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the United States Census Bureau, the population of Erving was estimated to be around 1,800 in 2019. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Erving was first settled in 1801 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1838. The town was named after John Erving, a prominent Boston merchant. Erving’s early economy was largely based on agriculture, but it later developed into a manufacturing hub with the establishment of several mills along the Millers River.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Erving is known for its scenic beauty and abundant natural resources. The town is home to the Erving State Forest, a large protected area offering hiking trails, camping facilities, and fishing opportunities. The Millers River, which flows through the town, is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking.
🏫 Education
Education in Erving is managed by the Erving School Union District. The town has one elementary school, Erving Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. For secondary education, students typically attend schools in the nearby towns.
🚧 Transportation
Erving is served by Route 2, also known as the Mohawk Trail, which provides east-west connectivity. The town is also accessible via Interstate 91, which is located a few miles to the west. Public transportation is provided by the Franklin Regional Transit Authority, which operates bus services in the area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Erving is home to the annual “Erving Paperfest”, a community event that celebrates the town’s rich history in the paper manufacturing industry. The town is also known for the “Erving’s Giant Chair”, a large wooden chair that stands as a symbol of the town’s past as a furniture manufacturing center.