📍 Location & Geography
Reading is a charming town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The town covers a total area of 10.1 square miles, of which 0.2 square miles is water, and the rest is land. Reading is bordered by the towns of Wakefield to the south, Stoneham to the southeast, Woburn to the southwest, and Lynnfield to the northeast.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Reading, Massachusetts are approximately 42.5257 degrees north latitude and 71.0953 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Reading is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the metropolitan region of New England that includes Boston and its surrounding towns. The town is located about 16 miles north of downtown Boston, making it a part of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Reading has a population of approximately 26,000 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 41.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with smaller populations of Asian, African American, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Reading was first settled in 1639 and was officially incorporated in 1644. The town was named after the town of Reading in England. Reading played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War, with its citizens participating in the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Over the years, the town has maintained its historical charm while growing and developing into a vibrant community.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Reading is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Reading Town Forest, Birch Meadow Park, and the Charles River Reservation. The town also has several bodies of water, including Lake Quannapowitt and the Ipswich River. These natural features provide residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
🏫 Education
Reading is served by the Reading Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, two middle schools, and Reading Memorial High School. The town also has a number of private schools and is in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
🚧 Transportation
Reading is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The town is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which provides commuter rail service from Reading Depot to Boston’s North Station. Interstate 95 and Route 128 pass through Reading, providing easy access to other parts of the state. The town is also approximately 15 miles from Logan International Airport.
📜 Trivia & Events
Reading is known for its annual Fall Street Faire, which features food, music, and local vendors. The town also hosts the Reading Friends and Family Day, a community event that includes games, performances, and fireworks. A fun fact about Reading is that it was the birthplace of famed author and illustrator, Edward Emerson Simmons.