📍 Location & Geography
West Dennis is a charming village located in the town of Dennis, in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It is situated on Cape Cod, a peninsula and popular tourist destination in the eastern part of the state. The village is bordered by the Nantucket Sound to the south, the Bass River to the west, and the Swan River to the east.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for West Dennis are approximately 41.6676° N latitude and 70.1685° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Dennis is part of the Cape Cod region, known for its beautiful beaches, quaint villages, and rich history. The village covers a total area of approximately 2.8 square miles, with about 2.2 square miles of land and 0.6 square miles of water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As a village within the town of Dennis, West Dennis shares its population with the larger town. As of the 2020 census, the town of Dennis had a population of around 14,207. The population is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of the population being of Irish and English descent. The median age in the town is approximately 58.9 years, reflecting a significant number of retirees.
🏛️ History
West Dennis, like much of Cape Cod, was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag Native American tribe. English settlers arrived in the area in the 17th century. The village was part of the town of Yarmouth until 1793 when it was incorporated as part of the new town of Dennis. The village and the larger town were named after Josiah Dennis, a local minister. In the 19th century, West Dennis was a bustling seaport and was known for its shipbuilding industry.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
West Dennis is known for its beautiful natural environment, with numerous beaches, rivers, and marshes. West Dennis Beach is a popular destination, with its mile-long stretch of sandy beach. The Bass and Swan Rivers offer opportunities for boating and fishing. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species.
🏫 Education
Education in West Dennis is provided by the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District, which serves the entire town of Dennis and neighboring Yarmouth. The district operates several elementary schools, a middle school, and Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School. The Cape Cod Community College, located in nearby West Barnstable, offers higher education opportunities.
🚧 Transportation
West Dennis is served by Route 28, which runs east-west through the village. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service in the area. The nearest airport is Barnstable Municipal Airport, located about 10 miles away in Hyannis. The CapeFlyer, a seasonal passenger train, also provides service from Boston to Hyannis.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Dennis is home to the West Dennis Yacht Club, which hosts sailing races and other events throughout the summer. The village is also known for the historic West Dennis Light, a lighthouse built in 1855 that is now a private residence. Every year, the town of Dennis hosts the Festival of the Arts, a popular event that includes art exhibits, concerts, and other cultural activities.