📍 Location & Geography
Stoneham is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is located approximately 9 miles north of downtown Boston and is part of the Greater Boston metropolitan area. The town is surrounded by several other communities including Wakefield to the north, Medford to the south, and Woburn to the west. It covers a total area of 6.7 square miles, of which 0.6 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Stoneham are 42.4803° N latitude and 71.0995° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Stoneham is part of the New England region, located in the northeastern United States. It is situated in the southern part of Middlesex County. The town has a mix of suburban neighborhoods, commercial zones, and patches of wilderness, including the Middlesex Fells Reservation.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the United States Census Bureau data of 2019, the population of Stoneham is estimated to be around 22,152. The town’s population is predominantly White, accounting for approximately 92.8% of the total population. Other ethnic groups include Asian (3.6%), Hispanic (2.6%), and African American (1.2%). The median age in Stoneham is around 44 years.
🏛️ History
Stoneham was first settled by colonists in 1645 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1725. It was originally a part of Charlestown, and later a part of Malden before becoming its own town. The town played a minor role in the American Revolutionary War and was primarily a farming community in its early years. In the 19th century, Stoneham became a major shoe manufacturing center, which significantly contributed to its growth and development.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Stoneham is home to the Middlesex Fells Reservation, a state park covering more than 2,200 acres of land. This park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The town is also home to Spot Pond, a popular spot for boating and fishing. Stoneham takes pride in its commitment to preserving its natural resources and maintaining its green spaces.
🏫 Education
The Stoneham Public School District oversees the town’s public education system, which includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. Stoneham also has a few private schools. For higher education, residents have access to numerous colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Stoneham is served by several major highways, including Interstate 93 and Route 28. Public transportation is provided by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), with several bus routes passing through the town. The nearest commuter rail service to Boston and other areas is available in the neighboring towns of Melrose and Wakefield.
📜 Trivia & Events
Stoneham is known for its Stone Zoo, one of the major zoos in the New England area. The zoo is home to a variety of animals and hosts special events throughout the year. Stoneham also hosts an annual Town Day, a community event featuring food, music, and entertainment. The Stoneham Theatre, a professional theatre company, is another notable attraction in the town.