📍 Location & Geography
Bolton is a quaint town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, approximately 25 miles west of Boston. The town covers a total area of 19.9 square miles, of which 19.7 square miles is land and 0.2 square miles is water. Bolton is characterized by rolling hills and wetlands, with the Nashua River flowing through the northeastern part of the town.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Bolton are 42°26′27″N 71°36′27″W.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bolton is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is part of the larger Worcester County and is surrounded by the towns of Lancaster, Stow, Hudson, Berlin, and Harvard. Bolton is primarily a residential and rural community, with a small town center.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Bolton has a population of approximately 5,227. The town has a diverse age group, with a median age of 42.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly white, accounting for 94.7% of the population. The remaining population is made up of Asian (2.4%), African American (0.9%), and other races.
🏛️ History
Bolton was first settled in 1682 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1738. The town was named after the English town of Bolton in Lancashire. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Bolton was primarily an agricultural community, with apple orchards and dairy farms dotting the landscape. The town saw significant growth in the 20th century, with the development of residential areas and the establishment of small businesses.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bolton is known for its scenic beauty, with numerous hiking trails, parks, and open spaces. The town is home to the Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area, a popular spot for bird watching and nature walks. The Nashua River, which flows through the town, offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The town is also committed to environmental conservation and has several initiatives in place to preserve its natural habitats.
🏫 Education
Bolton is served by the Nashoba Regional School District, which includes the Florence Sawyer School and the Nashoba Regional High School. The town also has a number of private schools and preschools. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities in the nearby cities of Worcester and Boston.
🚧 Transportation
Bolton is conveniently located near several major highways, including Interstate 495 and Route 117, making it easily accessible by car. The town is also served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail, with the nearest station located in the neighboring town of South Acton. The town does not have its own public transportation system, but residents can utilize the regional transit services provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bolton is known for its annual events such as the Bolton Fair, a traditional New England fair that features agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and a midway. The town also hosts the Bolton Artisans Guild Craft Fair and the Bolton Orchards Harvest Festival. A fun fact about Bolton is that it’s home to the Nashoba Valley Winery, a popular destination for wine tasting and apple picking.