📍 Location & Geography
Boxford is a charming town located in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 24 miles north of Boston. The town covers a total area of 24.4 square miles, of which 23.6 square miles is land and 0.85 square miles is water. Boxford is characterized by its rural, scenic landscapes, and is predominantly residential.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Boxford are approximately 42°40′N latitude and 70°59′W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Boxford is part of the Greater Boston area and is bordered by North Andover to the northwest, Groveland to the northeast, Georgetown and Rowley to the east, Ipswich and Topsfield to the southeast, Middleton to the southwest, and Andover to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Boxford was approximately 8,277. The town’s population consists of a broad age range, with a median age of around 45 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with small percentages of Asian, African American, and other races.
🏛️ History
Boxford was first settled in 1646 as a part of Rowley Village by Abraham Redington. When it was officially incorporated in 1685, the town was named after Boxford, Suffolk, England. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture and small-scale shoe making. Over time, Boxford transitioned into a primarily residential community, known for its tranquil, rural atmosphere.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Boxford is known for its beautiful, natural environment. The town is home to numerous ponds, brooks, and hiking trails. It is also home to a portion of the Boxford State Forest and the Cleveland Farm State Forest. The town is committed to preserving its natural beauty and has a significant amount of protected land.
🏫 Education
Education in Boxford is managed by the Boxford School District, which operates two elementary schools: Cole School and Spofford Pond School. For secondary education, students attend Masconomet Regional Middle School and Masconomet Regional High School, which are shared with the neighboring towns of Middleton and Topsfield.
🚧 Transportation
Boxford is served by a number of state and local routes, including Interstate 95, which provides easy access to Boston and other major cities. However, the town does not have a public transportation system or a train station. The nearest train station is located in the neighboring town of Andover, which provides commuter rail service to Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
Boxford is home to the annual Boxford Apple Festival, a popular event that features apple picking, craft vendors, food, and entertainment. The town is also known for its historic homes, some of which date back to the 17th century. Notably, Boxford is the location of the oldest continually running agricultural fair in America, the Topsfield Fair, which is held in the neighboring town of Topsfield but was originally started in Boxford in 1818.