📍 Location & Geography
Braintree is a suburban city located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts. It is situated in the northeastern part of the United States. The city covers a total area of 14.5 square miles, of which 13.9 square miles is land and 0.6 square miles is water. Braintree is bordered by Quincy to the north, Randolph to the west, and Weymouth to the east.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Braintree, Massachusetts are approximately 42.2223° N latitude and 71.0002° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Braintree is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in the New England region. The city is divided into several districts including Braintree Village, East Braintree, Braintree Highlands, and the Five Corners. The total land area of Braintree is approximately 14.5 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Braintree had a population of approximately 37,500 residents. The city has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The majority of residents are White, followed by Asian, African American, and Hispanic or Latino. The median age in Braintree is around 42 years.
🏛️ History
Braintree was first settled in 1625 and was officially incorporated in 1640. It was named after the town of Braintree in Essex, England. The city has a rich history and is known for being the birthplace of several notable figures, including U.S. Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, and statesman John Hancock.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Braintree is home to several parks and recreational areas. The largest park in the city is Pond Meadow Park, which spans 320 acres and includes a pond, wetlands, and walking trails. The city is also part of the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park known for its hiking trails and wildlife.
🏫 Education
Braintree is served by the Braintree Public Schools district, which includes one high school, two middle schools, and six elementary schools. The city is also home to Thayer Academy, a private, co-educational day school for grades 5-12, and Archbishop Williams High School, a Catholic high school.
🚧 Transportation
Braintree is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), providing both bus and rail service. The Braintree Station is a transit hub that provides access to the Red Line subway and the Commuter Rail’s Kingston/Plymouth Line. The city is also conveniently located near Interstate 93 and Route 3, providing easy access to Boston and other parts of Massachusetts.
📜 Trivia & Events
Braintree is known for its annual Fourth of July celebration, which includes a parade and fireworks. The city is also home to the South Shore Plaza, one of the largest shopping malls in the New England region. In addition, Braintree was the setting for several scenes in the 2010 film “The Company Men”.