📍 Location & Geography
Norfolk is a charming town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the eastern part of the state and is predominantly residential. It covers a total area of 15.2 square miles, of which 14.8 square miles is land and 0.3 square miles is water. Norfolk is surrounded by the towns of Millis and Medfield on the north, Walpole on the east, Foxborough and Wrentham on the south, and Franklin and Medway on the west.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Norfolk, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.12° N latitude and 71.33° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Norfolk is part of the Greater Boston area, a region in Massachusetts that’s known for its cultural, economic, and population influence. The town’s total area is 15.2 square miles, which is mostly land with a few bodies of water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the town of Norfolk has a population of approximately 11,900 residents. The demographic makeup of the town is predominantly white, with a small percentage of Asian, African American, and other races. The median age of residents in Norfolk is around 42.3 years.
🏛️ History
Norfolk was first settled in 1669 by European colonists and was originally a part of Dedham, Massachusetts until it was officially incorporated in 1870. The town was named after the county of Norfolk in England, by settlers who originated from that area. Over the years, Norfolk has maintained its small-town charm while experiencing moderate growth.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Norfolk is home to several parks and open spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is known for its beautiful scenery, including forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary and Norfolk Town Forest are popular spots for hiking, bird watching, and nature walks.
🏫 Education
Education in Norfolk is overseen by the Norfolk Public Schools district, which includes the H. Olive Day School for grades PreK-2 and the Freeman-Kennedy School for grades 3-6. For secondary education, students attend King Philip Regional Middle School and King Philip Regional High School, which are shared with the neighboring towns of Plainville and Wrentham.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Norfolk is primarily by car, with convenient access to Interstate 495 and other major highways. The town is also served by the Norfolk station on the MBTA Commuter Rail’s Franklin Line, providing direct access to downtown Boston. Additionally, several bus lines operate in the area, offering local and regional transit options.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Norfolk hosts a popular community day event that features games, food, and live entertainment. The town is also home to the Norfolk Hunt Club, which organizes several equestrian events throughout the year. An interesting fact about Norfolk is that it’s home to the state’s largest prison, the Massachusetts Correctional Institution – Norfolk.