📍 Location & Geography
Groton is a charming town located in the northwestern part of Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is nestled in the Nashoba Valley region, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The town is bordered by Pepperell to the north, Dunstable to the west, Tyngsborough and Westford to the east, and Littleton and Ayer to the south. The Nashua River and Squannacook River run through the town, providing beautiful natural landscapes.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Groton are approximately 42.61 degrees north latitude and 71.57 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Groton is part of the Greater Lowell region and belongs to Middlesex County. The town covers a total area of approximately 33.7 square miles (87.3 square kilometers), of which 32.8 square miles (84.9 square kilometers) is land and 0.9 square miles (2.3 square kilometers) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2020 Census, the population of Groton is approximately 11,500. The town exhibits a diverse age range, with a significant portion of the population being families. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with minorities including Asian, African American, and Hispanic residents.
🏛️ History
Groton was officially established in 1655 and was named after a town in Suffolk, England. The town was initially an agricultural community, but it grew and developed over the centuries. Groton has a rich history, with several historical landmarks such as the Groton Inn, which is one of the oldest inns in the United States, and the Old Burying Ground, which dates back to the 17th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Groton is known for its picturesque landscapes and natural beauty. The town is home to several conservation lands, including the J. Harry Rich State Forest and the Sabine Woods. The Nashua and Squannacook Rivers provide opportunities for boating and fishing. Groton also has numerous walking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
🏫 Education
Groton has a strong commitment to education. The town is served by the Groton-Dunstable Regional School District, which includes Florence Roche Elementary School, Swallow Union Elementary School, Groton-Dunstable Regional Middle School, and Groton-Dunstable Regional High School. The town is also home to the prestigious Groton School, a private, college-preparatory boarding school.
🚧 Transportation
Groton is conveniently located near several major highways, including Interstate 495 and U.S. Route 3, providing easy access to Boston and other neighboring cities. The town is also served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail service, with the nearest station located in Ayer. For air travel, the closest major airport is Boston Logan International Airport, which is approximately 50 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Groton is known for its annual Grotonfest, a popular community event that features local artisans, businesses, and food vendors. The town also hosts the Groton Road Race every spring, attracting runners from all over the region. An interesting piece of trivia is that Groton was the birthplace of William Prescott, a notable American colonel in the Revolutionary War.