📍 Location & Geography
Buckland is a charming town located in Franklin County, Massachusetts, United States. It is nestled in the scenic Mohawk Trail region of the state. The town encompasses a total area of 19.9 square miles, of which 19.7 square miles is land and 0.2 square miles is water. The Deerfield River, a major tributary of the Connecticut River, flows through the town.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Buckland, Massachusetts are approximately 42°36′ North latitude and 72°47′ West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Buckland is part of the Springfield, Massachusetts Metropolitan Statistical Area, despite its rural setting. The town is bordered by Charlemont to the north, Conway to the east, Ashfield to the southeast, and Shelburne to the west. The village of Shelburne Falls is located partly in Buckland and partly in the neighboring town of Shelburne.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2010 census, Buckland had a population of 1,902 residents. The town’s population is predominantly white, with a small percentage of residents from other racial and ethnic backgrounds. The median age of residents is around 44 years, slightly higher than the state average.
🏛️ History
Buckland was first settled in 1742 as “No Town,” as it was not officially recognized as a town or village at the time. It was later incorporated as a district named Buckland in 1779, named after the Buckland Hills in England. The town’s early economy was primarily based on agriculture, but it later developed a robust manufacturing industry with mills powered by the Deerfield River.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Buckland is known for its natural beauty, with the Deerfield River and surrounding forests offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is home to several parks and conservation areas, including the Buckland State Forest. The Mohawk Trail, a historic Native American trade route that is now a scenic byway, passes through the town.
🏫 Education
Buckland is part of the Mohawk Trail Regional School District, which serves several towns in the area. Buckland students attend Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School for grades K-6 and Mohawk Trail Regional High School for grades 7-12. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities in the nearby Springfield and Greenfield areas.
🚧 Transportation
Route 112, a north-south highway, is the primary road passing through Buckland. The town is also served by the Franklin Regional Transit Authority, which provides public bus service to other towns in the county. The nearest airport is Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, approximately 60 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Buckland is home to the Bridge of Flowers, a former trolley bridge now covered with a garden of flowers that attracts visitors from around the region. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Buckland Cultural Council Art Show and the Buckland Family Day.