📍 Location & Geography
Westwood is a small town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. The town covers an area of 11.1 square miles, of which 10.6 square miles is land and 0.5 square miles is water. Westwood is bordered by the towns of Dedham, Dover, Norwood, Walpole, and Canton. It is approximately 12 miles southwest of downtown Boston, the state’s capital.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Westwood, Massachusetts are approximately 42.2140° N latitude and 71.2245° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Westwood is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in Massachusetts. The town is situated in the eastern part of the state, and it falls within the New England region of the northeastern United States. Westwood’s total area is approximately 11.1 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Westwood has a population of around 15,000 people. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 43.8 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, making up 92.7% of the population, followed by Asian at 4.7%, and smaller percentages of other races.
🏛️ History
Westwood was first settled in 1640 and was part of the town of Dedham, originally called ‘West Dedham’, until it was officially incorporated in 1897. The town was named Westwood in honor of its western location relative to Dedham. Over the years, Westwood has maintained its small-town charm while experiencing growth and development.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Westwood is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring numerous parks, trails, and green spaces. Key attractions include Hale Reservation, a vast woodland preserve with trails and ponds, and Wilson Mountain Reservation, a state park offering hiking and stunning views. The town is committed to environmental sustainability and conservation, with various initiatives in place to protect its natural resources.
🏫 Education
Westwood has a reputation for excellent education. The Westwood Public Schools district consists of five elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school – Westwood High School. The town is also home to Xaverian Brothers High School, a private Catholic boys’ school. For higher education, residents have access to numerous colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Westwood is served by the MBTA’s commuter rail service, with two stations, Westwood/University and Islington, providing convenient access to downtown Boston and other parts of the state. The town is also intersected by several major highways, including Interstates 95 and 93, making it easily accessible by car. Additionally, Westwood is close to Logan International Airport for domestic and international travel.
📜 Trivia & Events
Westwood is home to the Westwood Public Library, which hosts a variety of community events and programs throughout the year. The town also hosts an annual Flag Day Parade, a cherished tradition that brings together residents for a celebration of community and patriotism. Additionally, Westwood was the filming location for several scenes in the 2013 film, “The Heat,” starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy.