📍 Location & Geography
Bedford is a suburban town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the Greater Boston area, approximately 15 miles northwest of the city center. Bedford is bordered by Burlington, Lexington, Concord, Carlisle, and Billerica. The town covers an area of 13.9 square miles, of which 0.3 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Bedford, Massachusetts are approximately 42.4906° N latitude and 71.2762° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bedford is part of the New England region, located in the northeastern part of the United States. The town is part of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. Bedford covers a total area of approximately 13.9 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Bedford was approximately 14,500. The town has a diverse population, with individuals of various ages, races, and ethnicities. The median age in the town is 43.8 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, followed by Asian, African American, and other races.
🏛️ History
Bedford was first settled by Europeans around 1640 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1729. The town is known for its historical sites, including the Bedford Flag, which is believed to be the oldest complete flag in the United States. The town also played a role in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bedford boasts a number of parks and conservation areas, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is home to the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, which offers walking trails and wildlife viewing. The town also maintains several playgrounds, sports fields, and a town pool.
🏫 Education
Bedford is served by the Bedford Public Schools district, which includes four schools: Davis Elementary School, Lane Elementary School, John Glenn Middle School, and Bedford High School. The town also hosts the campus of Middlesex Community College and is in close proximity to several other higher education institutions in the Greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Bedford is accessible by several major highways, including Interstate 95 and Route 3. The town is served by the Lowell Line of the MBTA Commuter Rail, providing direct access to downtown Boston. Additionally, Bedford is home to the Hanscom Field, a public airport operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bedford is known for its annual Pole Capping ceremony, a tradition dating back to the American Revolutionary War. The town also hosts the Bedford Day celebration in September, featuring a parade, fair, and other community activities. The Bedford Free Public Library, built in 1892, is a notable landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.