📍 Location & Geography
West Harwich is a village in the town of Harwich, Massachusetts, United States. It is located in the southeastern part of the state, on Cape Cod, an arm-shaped peninsula that extends into the Atlantic Ocean. The village is nestled between the towns of Dennis and Harwich, with the Herring River running through it.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for West Harwich are approximately 41.67 degrees North latitude and 70.11 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Harwich is part of Barnstable County, which is one of the 14 counties in Massachusetts. The village is situated on Cape Cod, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, lighthouses, and historic sites. The total area of West Harwich is relatively small, reflecting its status as a village within the larger town of Harwich.
👥 Population & Demographics
As a village within the town of Harwich, West Harwich does not have its own separate population count. However, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town of Harwich had a population of approximately 12,243 as of 2010. The population is predominantly Caucasian, with a significant percentage of the population being of Irish and English descent.
🏛️ History
West Harwich was settled by Europeans in the 17th century, along with the rest of Cape Cod. It was originally part of the town of Yarmouth, but was incorporated as a separate town along with the rest of Harwich in 1694. The town was primarily agricultural in its early years, but in the 19th century, it became a center for the cranberry industry. The village of West Harwich has maintained much of its historic charm, with several buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
West Harwich is known for its scenic beauty, with the Herring River providing a picturesque backdrop for the village. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The village is also close to several beaches on the Nantucket Sound, including Grey Neck Beach and Pleasant Road Beach.
🏫 Education
Education in West Harwich is provided by the Monomoy Regional School District, which serves the towns of Harwich and Chatham. The district operates several schools, including Harwich Elementary School, Monomoy Regional Middle School, and Monomoy Regional High School.
🚧 Transportation
West Harwich is served by Route 28, which runs east-west through the village. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation services in the area, including a bus route that stops in West Harwich. The nearest airport is Barnstable Municipal Airport, located about 20 miles to the west in Hyannis.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Harwich is home to the historic Captain Baker House, a Greek Revival style home built in 1865. The village also hosts an annual Cranberry Festival, which celebrates the area’s historic ties to the cranberry industry. The festival includes a cranberry harvest demonstration, a parade, and a variety of food and craft vendors.