📍 Location & Geography
Winchendon is a small town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the north-central part of the state, near the New Hampshire border. Winchendon is surrounded by the towns of Rindge, Ashburnham, Royalston, and Gardner. The town covers a total area of 44.0 square miles, of which 41.5 square miles is land and 2.5 square miles is water. Winchendon is home to several bodies of water including Lake Monomonac, Lake Dennison, and Whitney Pond.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Winchendon, Massachusetts are approximately 42.68 degrees north latitude and 72.04 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Winchendon is part of the Worcester County in Massachusetts. The town is often referred to as “Toy Town” due to its historical association with the toy industry. The town is divided into several villages namely, Winchendon Springs, Waterville, and Winchendon Village.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Winchendon was approximately 10,300. The town has a diverse population with the majority being White, followed by Hispanic, African American, Asian, and other races. The median age in the town is around 40 years.
🏛️ History
Winchendon was first settled in 1752 and was officially incorporated in 1764. The town was originally a part of Ipswich Canada, now known as Ashburnham. Winchendon is known for its historical significance in the toy industry. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town was a major center for the production of wooden toys, which led to its nickname “Toy Town.”
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Winchendon is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring several lakes, ponds, and forests. The town is home to Lake Dennison Recreation Area, a state park offering camping, swimming, and hiking opportunities. Additionally, the town has several trails for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
🏫 Education
Education in Winchendon is managed by the Winchendon Public Schools district. The district operates several schools including Memorial Elementary School, Toy Town Elementary School, and Murdock High School. The town is also home to the Winchendon School, a private, coeducational college-preparatory boarding school.
🚧 Transportation
Winchendon is served by Massachusetts Route 12, Route 140, and Route 202. The town is also accessible via the Fitchburg Line of the MBTA Commuter Rail with the nearest station being in Fitchburg. The Montachusett Regional Transit Authority provides bus service in the area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Winchendon hosts the “Summer Solstice Festival,” a community event featuring live music, food, and various activities. One of the town’s notable landmarks is the “Toy Town Horse,” a large rocking horse reminding of the town’s toy manufacturing history. The town is also known for being the birthplace of Alvah Crocker, a prominent 19th-century industrialist and Massachusetts congressman.