📍 Location & Geography
Bellingham is a charming town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. It’s nestled in the northeastern part of the country and is part of the Greater Boston area. The town is bordered by Medway on the east, Franklin to the south, Wrentham to the southeast, and Blackstone and Mendon to the west. The Charles River meanders through the town, contributing to its scenic beauty.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Bellingham are approximately 42.0868° N latitude and 71.4745° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bellingham is in the New England region of the United States, specifically in the eastern part of Massachusetts. The town covers a total area of about 19 square miles (49.2 km²), of which 18.5 square miles (47.9 km²) is land and 0.5 square miles (1.3 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Bellingham had a population of 16,332. The town has a diverse demographic makeup with a mix of different age groups, ethnicities, and backgrounds. The majority of the population is Caucasian, followed by African American, Asian, and other races. The median age in the town is around 40 years.
🏛️ History
Bellingham was first settled by European colonists in 1713 and was officially incorporated in 1719. The town was named after Sir Richard Bellingham, who was an early governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Bellingham played a small role in the American Revolutionary War, with several local residents participating in the war.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bellingham is blessed with a rich natural environment. The town features several parks, including the Bellingham Town Common and the High Street Historic District. The Charles River offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The town is also home to several species of wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers.
🏫 Education
Bellingham is served by the Bellingham School District, which includes Bellingham High School, Bellingham Memorial Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also home to the New England Chapel, a private school. For higher education, residents have access to nearby institutions such as Dean College in Franklin and the Milford campus of the Massachusetts Bay Community College.
🚧 Transportation
Bellingham is well-connected by road and rail. The town is served by Interstate 495 and Massachusetts Route 126. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides commuter rail service from Bellingham to Boston’s South Station via the Franklin Line. Additionally, the town is within easy driving distance of the Logan International Airport in Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bellingham hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Independence Day celebration and the Bellingham Music Festival. The town is also home to the New England Country Music Club, which hosts regular country music performances. A fun fact about Bellingham is that it was the site of the first public library in the United States, established in 1775.