📍 Location & Geography
Kingston is a coastal town located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated approximately 35 miles south of Boston and 20 miles east of Providence, Rhode Island. Kingston is bordered by the towns of Pembroke to the north, Duxbury to the northeast, Plymouth to the south, and Plympton to the west. The town’s geography is characterized by coastal plains, forests, and wetlands, with the Jones River flowing through it.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Kingston, Massachusetts are approximately 41.9945° N latitude and 70.7076° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Kingston is part of the South Shore region of Massachusetts, which is a suburban area south of Boston. The town covers a total area of approximately 20.5 square miles, of which about 18.6 square miles is land and 1.9 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Kingston had a population of approximately 13,800 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of around 44 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Kingston was first settled by Europeans in 1620 and was originally part of Plymouth. It was incorporated as a separate town on June 16, 1726. The town was named after Kingston upon Thames in England. In the 19th century, Kingston was known for its shipbuilding industry, and it was also a major center for the production of cranberries and strawberries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Kingston is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Bay Farm Conservation Area, Sampson Park, and the Gray’s Beach Park. The town’s coastal location provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Kingston’s environment is also characterized by its forests, wetlands, and wildlife.
🏫 Education
Education in Kingston is provided by the Kingston Elementary School, Kingston Intermediate School, and Silver Lake Regional Middle and High Schools, which are part of the Silver Lake Regional School District. The town is also home to Sacred Heart School, a private Catholic school serving students in grades Pre-K through 12.
🚧 Transportation
Kingston is served by several major highways, including Route 3, Route 44, and Route 106. The town is also accessible by train via the Kingston/Route 3 station on the MBTA’s Plymouth/Kingston Line, which provides commuter rail service to Boston. Additionally, the GATRA provides local bus service within the town and to neighboring communities.
📜 Trivia & Events
Kingston is known for its annual Fourth of July celebration, which includes a parade, live music, and fireworks. The town is also home to the Kingston Collection, a large shopping mall featuring a variety of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options. In terms of trivia, Kingston is the birthplace of U.S. Senator and 2020 presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren.