📍 Location & Geography
Dudley is a small town located in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the southern part of Worcester County, in the central region of the state. The town is bordered by Webster to its south, Oxford to its north, Charlton to its west, and the state of Connecticut to its east. Dudley covers a total area of 22.1 square miles, of which 21.0 square miles is land and 1.1 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Dudley, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0437° N latitude and 71.9326° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Dudley is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town is located within the Worcester County, Massachusetts. It has a total area of approximately 22.1 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Dudley had a population of approximately 11,390 residents. The demographic makeup of the town is predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races. The median age in Dudley is around 40 years.
🏛️ History
Dudley was first settled by Europeans in 1714 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1732. The town was named after Paul Dudley, Attorney-General of Massachusetts. Dudley’s history is closely tied to the textile industry, with several mills operating in the town during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Dudley is home to several bodies of water, including Merino Pond and Pierpont Meadow Pond. The town also has several parks and outdoor spaces, such as the Dudley Conservation Land and the Dudley Town Beach. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, lush forests, and abundant wildlife.
🏫 Education
Dudley is served by the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District, which includes Mason Road School, Dudley Elementary School, Dudley Middle School, and Shepherd Hill Regional High School. The town is also home to Nichols College, a private college offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields.
🚧 Transportation
The major routes that pass through Dudley are Route 12, Route 197, and Route 16. The town is also located near Interstate 395. Public transportation in Dudley is provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, which operates bus routes in the area. The nearest major airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles north of Dudley.
📜 Trivia & Events
Dudley hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Dudley Grange Fair, a popular local event featuring agricultural displays, crafts, and food. The town is also known for the Black Tavern, a historic building dating back to 1803 that now serves as a museum and community center.