📍 Location & Geography
Charlton Depot is a small, unincorporated community located in the town of Charlton, in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. The area is primarily residential, with a blend of suburban and rural characteristics. It’s situated in central Massachusetts, approximately 50 miles west of Boston.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Charlton Depot are approximately 42.1359° N latitude and 71.9674° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Charlton Depot is part of Worcester County, which is the western part of the state of Massachusetts. It’s nestled within the town of Charlton, occupying a relatively small area within the town’s limits.
👥 Population & Demographics
As an unincorporated community within the town of Charlton, Charlton Depot doesn’t have a separate population count. However, the town of Charlton itself has a population of around 13,000 people as of the latest census. The demographic makeup is a mix of various age groups, with a median age of 44 years. The population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races.
🏛️ History
Charlton Depot’s history is intertwined with that of the larger town of Charlton. The town was first settled in 1735 and was officially incorporated in 1775. The name “Charlton” was chosen in honor of Sir Francis Charlton, an English supporter of the colonies. The area grew steadily over the centuries, with Charlton Depot serving as a key point in the town’s development.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Charlton Depot is surrounded by the natural beauty of central Massachusetts. The area is characterized by rolling hills, lush greenery, and numerous bodies of water. Not far from Charlton Depot is Buffumville Lake, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. The town of Charlton also has several parks and conservation areas, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Charlton Depot is provided by the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District. The district operates several schools in the area, including Charlton Elementary School, Heritage School, Charlton Middle School, and Shepherd Hill Regional High School. For higher education, residents have access to numerous colleges and universities within a short drive, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Clark University in Worcester.
🚧 Transportation
Charlton Depot is primarily served by road transportation, with easy access to major highways such as Route 20 and Interstate 90 (Massachusetts Turnpike). The Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service in the area. The nearest major airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 20 miles north of Charlton Depot.
📜 Trivia & Events
Despite its small size, Charlton Depot has a rich cultural history. The town of Charlton, including Charlton Depot, is known for its annual Old Home Day, a community event that celebrates the town’s history and community spirit with a parade, games, and food. Additionally, the Overlook Masonic Health Center, one of the largest continuing care retirement communities in the Northeast, is located in Charlton Depot.