📍 Location & Geography
Mansfield is a town located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated about 24 miles south of Boston, 18 miles north of Providence, Rhode Island, and about 235 miles from New York City. The town spans a total area of 20.7 square miles, of which 0.3 square miles is water. Mansfield is bordered by Foxborough to the north, Easton to the east, Norton to the south, and Plainville and Wrentham to the west.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Mansfield, Massachusetts are approximately 42° 2′ 0″ North latitude and 71° 13′ 0″ West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Mansfield is part of the Greater Boston region, which is the largest metropolitan area in New England. The town is divided into several areas including Mansfield Center, East Mansfield, West Mansfield, and Whiteville.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Mansfield has a population of approximately 24,000 residents. The town has a diverse demographic makeup with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age in Mansfield is around 40 years. The town is known for its family-friendly environment, with a significant percentage of households having children under the age of 18.
🏛️ History
Mansfield was first settled by European colonists in 1658 and was officially incorporated in 1775. The town was named after William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield, a pro-colonial judge. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Mansfield was known for its manufacturing industries, particularly straw hats and metal products.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Mansfield is home to several parks and open spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The Mansfield Hollow State Park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and boating. The town is also part of the Canoe River Aquifer, an important water resource for the region. Mansfield takes pride in its commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.
🏫 Education
The town of Mansfield is served by the Mansfield Public Schools district, which includes four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school – Mansfield High School. Higher education is available at the nearby Wheaton College and Bristol Community College.
🚧 Transportation
Mansfield is conveniently located at the intersection of Interstates 95 and 495, providing easy access to Boston and Providence. The town is also served by the Mansfield MBTA train station, which offers commuter rail service to Boston. Additionally, Mansfield Municipal Airport provides services for general aviation.
📜 Trivia & Events
Mansfield is known for the Xfinity Center, an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts by top-tier performers during the summer months. The town also hosts the annual Family Fun Night, a community event featuring food, games, and live music. Fun fact: the town was once known as the “Straw Hat Capital of the World” due to its booming hat manufacturing industry in the 19th century.