📍 Location & Geography
Easton is a charming city located in the southern part of Massachusetts, within Bristol County. It is approximately 29 miles south of Boston, the state’s capital, and 40 miles north of Providence, Rhode Island. The city covers a total area of 29.2 square miles, of which 28.4 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water. Easton is surrounded by the towns of Norton to the south, Mansfield to the southwest, and Stoughton to the north.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Easton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0245° N latitude and 71.1287° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Easton is part of the Greater Boston area, specifically the Boston–Cambridge–Newton, MA–NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is divided into three distinct areas: North Easton, South Easton, and Easton Center, each with its unique character and charm.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Easton’s population was approximately 24,000. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of different age groups and ethnicities. The median age is about 40 years. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of Asian, African American, and Hispanic residents.
🏛️ History
Easton was first settled by Europeans in 1694 and was officially incorporated in 1725. The city was named after Easton, a town in Somerset, England. During the 19th century, Easton was a thriving industrial town with several factories and mills. The Ames Shovel Works, a historic 19th-century industrial complex, played a significant role in the city’s economy and is now a National Historic Landmark.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Easton is known for its beautiful natural environment, with several parks, nature reserves, and conservation areas. The city is home to Borderland State Park, a 1,843-acre park with trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park also features a historic mansion and a pond for fishing and canoeing. Easton’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its numerous green spaces and initiatives to promote sustainability.
🏫 Education
Easton has a strong educational system, with public schools managed by the Easton Public Schools district. The district includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and Oliver Ames High School. Easton is also home to Stonehill College, a private, non-profit, coeducational, Roman Catholic, liberal arts college.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Easton is primarily by car, with several major highways passing through the city, including Massachusetts Route 24 and 138. The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) provides public transportation services in the area. The nearest airport is the Logan International Airport in Boston, which is about 30 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Easton hosts several annual events and festivals, including the Easton Lions Club Carnival and the Harvest Fun Day. The city is also known for its rich architectural heritage, with several buildings designed by H.H. Richardson, a prominent 19th-century American architect. The Ames Free Library and Oakes Ames Memorial Hall are two notable examples of Richardson’s work in Easton.