📍 Location & Geography
Webster is a town located in Worcester County in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the central part of the state, near the southern border of Massachusetts. The town is bordered by Dudley to the west, Oxford to the north, and Douglas to the east. To the south, Webster shares a border with Thompson, Connecticut. The town has a total area of 14.5 square miles, of which 12.5 square miles is land and 2.0 square miles is water, including Webster Lake.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Webster, Massachusetts are approximately 42.05 degrees north latitude and 71.88 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Webster is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It belongs to the Worcester County and is part of the larger Boston-Worcester-Providence, MA-RI-NH-CT Combined Statistical Area. The town covers an area of approximately 14.5 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Webster is approximately 16,893. The town has a diverse demographic, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age of the residents is around 41 years.
🏛️ History
Webster was first settled in 1713 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1832. The town was named after statesman Daniel Webster. The town’s economy was initially based on textile manufacturing, with the presence of several mills. Over time, Webster has transitioned into a more diverse economy, with various small businesses and industries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Webster is home to several parks and natural attractions. The most notable is Webster Lake, which is one of the largest freshwater bodies in the state. The lake is known for its recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The town also has several green spaces, including Memorial Beach Park and Slater Memorial Park.
🏫 Education
Webster’s public school system is managed by the Webster Public Schools district. The town has multiple public schools, including Park Avenue Elementary, Webster Middle School, and Bartlett High School. For higher education, the nearby city of Worcester offers several colleges and universities.
🚧 Transportation
Webster is served by several major highways, including Interstate 395 and Route 12. The town is also accessible by Route 16 and Route 193. For public transportation, the Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides bus service in the area. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles north of the town.
📜 Trivia & Events
Webster is known for its annual summer festival, Indian Ranch, which features live music, food, and family-friendly activities. The town is also home to Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, often cited as the longest place name in the United States and one of the longest in the world. The name is often shortened to Webster Lake for convenience.