📍 Location & Geography
Pembroke is a charming town located in Plymouth County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated approximately 26 miles south of Boston and 12 miles north of Plymouth. Pembroke is characterized by its diverse landscape, featuring a mix of ponds, rivers, streams, forests, and open land. The town is bisected by the North River, which serves as a natural boundary between Pembroke and the neighboring town of Marshfield.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Pembroke, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0715° N latitude and 70.8092° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Pembroke is part of the South Shore region of Massachusetts, a region that stretches south and east from Boston toward Cape Cod along the shores of Massachusetts Bay and Cape Cod Bay. The town covers a total area of approximately 23.5 square miles, of which 21.6 square miles is land and 1.9 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Pembroke has a population of approximately 18,000 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of the population being of Hispanic, Asian, African American, and other ethnic backgrounds. The median age in Pembroke is around 40 years, and the town has a slightly higher percentage of females than males.
🏛️ History
Pembroke was first settled by Europeans in 1650 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1712. The town was named after Pembroke, Wales, the birthplace of one of the first settlers. Pembroke’s early economy was largely based on agriculture and fishing, but the town also had a significant shipbuilding industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of the historic homes and buildings in Pembroke date back to this period.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Pembroke is known for its beautiful natural environment, which includes over 21 ponds, several rivers, and numerous hiking and biking trails. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Tubbs Meadow Conservation Area and the Herring Run Park. Pembroke’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its active Conservation Commission and numerous community-led environmental initiatives.
🏫 Education
Pembroke is served by the Pembroke Public School District, which includes two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The town also has a number of private and parochial schools. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities in the greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Pembroke is conveniently located near several major highways, including Route 3 and Route 53, providing easy access to Boston and other parts of Massachusetts. The town does not have its own public transportation system, but residents can access bus and train services in nearby towns. The closest airport is the Logan International Airport in Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
Pembroke is home to several annual community events, including the Pembroke Arts Festival and the Christmas Tree Lighting. The town also has a number of historical landmarks, including the Pembroke Friends Meetinghouse, one of the oldest Quaker meetinghouses in the country. Additionally, Pembroke was the filming location for several scenes in the 2008 film “The Women.”