📍 Location & Geography
Somerset is a quaint town located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated along the eastern border of the state, near the mouth of the Taunton River. The town covers a total area of 12.2 square miles, of which 8.1 square miles is land and 4.1 square miles, or 33.84%, is water. Somerset is bordered by Swansea on the west and by the Taunton River and Fall River on the east.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Somerset are approximately 41.769N latitude and 71.128W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Somerset is part of the New England region, specifically in the southeastern part of Massachusetts. It is part of the Providence metropolitan area, which extends into Rhode Island. The town is primarily residential, with a mix of suburban and rural areas.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2010, Somerset had a population of 18,165. The demographic makeup of the town was predominantly White, with a smaller percentage of Asian, African American, and other races. The median age was 44.3 years, indicating a slightly older population compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Somerset was first settled in 1677 and was officially incorporated in 1790. The town was named after Somerset Square in Boston, which was the home of one of the first settlers. Somerset was primarily an agricultural community until the late 19th century when it began to industrialize with the construction of several textile mills. The town also has a rich maritime history, with shipbuilding being a significant industry in the 19th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Somerset is known for its beautiful natural environment, with several parks and open spaces. The town is home to Pierce Beach and Playground, a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and outdoor activities. The Somerset Village Waterfront Park on the banks of the Taunton River offers scenic views and recreational opportunities. The town is also known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with several initiatives aimed at preserving its natural beauty and resources.
🏫 Education
Education in Somerset is managed by the Somerset Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Somerset Berkley Regional High School. The town also has a number of private schools. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities in the surrounding area, including Bristol Community College and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Somerset is primarily by car, with several major highways passing through or near the town, including Interstate 195 and Route 138. The town is also served by the Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA), which provides bus service to surrounding communities. The nearest airport is T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island, approximately 20 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Somerset hosts the “Musictown Festival,” a two-week event that celebrates music and arts in the community. The festival features performances by local school bands, orchestras, and choirs, as well as professional musicians. Another interesting fact about Somerset is that it was once the home of the Brayton Point Power Station, which was the largest coal-fired power plant in New England before its closure in 2017.