📍 Location & Geography
Blandford is a charming rural town located in Hampden County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated on the eastern edge of the Berkshire Hills, with an elevation that ranges from 1,300 to 1,700 feet above sea level. Blandford spans a total area of 53.1 square miles, of which 52.7 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Blandford, Massachusetts are approximately 42.18 degrees North latitude and 72.93 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Blandford is part of the Springfield, Massachusetts Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is located in the Pioneer Valley of the Connecticut River Valley. The town is surrounded by several other Massachusetts towns, including Russell to the east, Huntington to the north, Otis to the west, and Tolland to the south.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 United States Census, Blandford had a population of approximately 1,233 people. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of residents from other racial backgrounds. The median age in Blandford is higher than the national average, reflecting its appeal among retirees.
🏛️ History
Blandford was first settled in 1735 by Scots-Irish settlers and was officially incorporated as a town in 1741. The town was named after Blandford Forum in the United Kingdom. Blandford played a role in the Revolutionary War, and many of its historical buildings and landmarks, such as the Blandford Fairgrounds and the White Church, reflect its rich history.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Blandford is known for its natural beauty, with a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is home to part of the Blandford Ski Area and the Chester-Blandford State Forest, which offers hiking trails and picnic areas. The town also has several bodies of water, including Watson Pond and Blandford Reservoir.
🏫 Education
Education in Blandford is provided by the Gateway Regional School District, which serves several towns in the area. Blandford Elementary School serves the town’s younger students, while older students attend Gateway Regional Middle School and Gateway Regional High School.
🚧 Transportation
Blandford is accessible by car via the Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90), which runs through the town. The nearest airport is Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, approximately 30 miles away. The town does not have its own public transportation system, but PVTA buses serve the wider region.
📜 Trivia & Events
Blandford is home to the Blandford Fair, an annual event held on Labor Day weekend that features agricultural exhibits, craft displays, live music, and a variety of food vendors. The town is also known for the Blandford Ski Area, which is one of the oldest, continuously operating ski clubs in North America.