📍 Location & Geography
Wrentham is a town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state and is approximately 43 miles southwest of Boston. The town is surrounded by six other Massachusetts towns: Norfolk to the north, Foxborough to the east, Plainville and Cumberland, Rhode Island to the south, and Bellingham and Franklin to the west. Wrentham covers a total area of 22.9 square miles, of which 21.9 square miles is land and 1.0 square mile is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Wrentham are approximately 42.0662° N latitude and 71.3281° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Wrentham is part of the greater Boston area, and it is located in the New England region of the United States. The town is divided into several areas, including Wrentham Village, Sheldonville (Wrentham’s northwest section), and City Mills, which is located on the town’s border with Norfolk.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Wrentham had a population of approximately 11,870. The town’s population is predominantly white, with small percentages of African American, Asian, and other races. The median age in Wrentham is around 44 years, and the town has a slightly higher percentage of females than males.
🏛️ History
Wrentham was first settled by English settlers in 1660 and was officially incorporated in 1673. The town was originally a part of the Dedham Grant, which was purchased from King Philip, the chief of the Wampanoag tribe. In the 19th century, Wrentham became a hub for the manufacture of boots and shoes, and later, jewelry.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Wrentham is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is home to Wrentham State Forest, a large forested area perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the town contains a portion of the Franklin State Forest. Wrentham also has several bodies of water, including Lake Pearl and Lake Archer, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
🏫 Education
Education in Wrentham is managed by the Wrentham Public Schools district, which operates three schools: the Delaney Elementary School, the Roderick Elementary School, and the King Philip Regional High School, which also serves students from the neighboring towns of Norfolk and Plainville. For higher education, residents have access to numerous colleges and universities in the greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Wrentham is served by several major highways, including U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 495, providing easy access to Boston and other parts of the state. The town is also within close proximity to the MBTA Commuter Rail, which offers service to Boston. For air travel, residents have access to several airports in the region, including Logan International Airport in Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
Wrentham is home to the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, one of the largest outlet malls in New England, attracting shoppers from across the region. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Wrentham Day, a community celebration featuring food, music, and family-friendly activities. Wrentham is also known for its historic Cracker-Barrel Fair, which has been a town tradition for over a century.