📍 Location & Geography
Barnstable is a city located in the southeastern part of the state of Massachusetts, in the United States. It is the largest community, both in land area and population, on Cape Cod. The city is approximately 70 miles southeast of Boston, the state’s capital. The city of Barnstable is made up of several villages, including Hyannis, Centerville, Osterville, Cotuit, Marstons Mills, and West Barnstable.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Barnstable, Massachusetts are approximately 41.7004° N latitude and 70.3002° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Barnstable is the county seat of Barnstable County. The city covers a total area of approximately 76.3 square miles, of which about 60.1 square miles is land and 16.2 square miles is water. The city is bordered by Cape Cod Bay to the north, Nantucket Sound to the south, and the towns of Sandwich and Mashpee to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the city of Barnstable has a population of approximately 44,477. The city has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age in the city is around 49.7 years, which is higher than the state average.
🏛️ History
The area that is now Barnstable was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag Native American tribe. The city was first settled by Europeans in 1638 and was incorporated in 1639, making it one of the oldest towns in the United States. The city was named after Barnstaple, Devon, England, from where many of its original settlers originated. The city played a significant role in the maritime and agricultural industries during the 18th and 19th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Barnstable is known for its beautiful coastal scenery, with miles of sandy beaches, marshes, and ponds. The city is home to several nature reserves and conservation areas, including the Sandy Neck Beach Park and the Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary. The city’s location on Cape Cod also makes it a popular spot for bird watching, fishing, and boating.
🏫 Education
The city of Barnstable is served by the Barnstable Public School District, which includes several elementary schools, two middle schools, and Barnstable High School. The city is also home to Cape Cod Community College, a public two-year institution that offers associate degrees and certificate programs.
🚧 Transportation
Major roads in Barnstable include U.S. Route 6, also known as the Mid-Cape Highway, and Massachusetts Route 28. The city is served by the Barnstable Municipal Airport, which offers commercial flights to several destinations. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation services in the city, including bus and shuttle services.
📜 Trivia & Events
Barnstable is known for its annual Barnstable County Fair, a week-long event that features live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and carnival rides. The city is also home to the Cape Cod Potato Chips factory, which offers tours to the public. Hyannis, one of the villages in Barnstable, was the home of the Kennedy family and is the location of the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum.