📍 Location & Geography
Byfield is a village in the town of Newbury, located in the northeastern part of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated within Essex County and is part of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. The village is nestled among rolling hills and open fields, and it is bordered by the Parker River to the south and west, and the Interstate 95 to the east.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Byfield, Massachusetts are approximately 42.7495° N latitude and 70.9787° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Byfield spans a relatively small area within the town of Newbury. It is part of the North Shore region of Massachusetts, a coastal area that extends from Boston to the New Hampshire border. Byfield, like much of the North Shore, is characterized by a mix of suburban and rural landscapes.
👥 Population & Demographics
Byfield, being a village within the town of Newbury, does not have its own separate population count. However, as of the 2020 census, the town of Newbury, which includes Byfield, has a population of approximately 6,666 people. The demographics of the area are predominantly white, with smaller populations of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Byfield was originally part of the town of Rowley and was incorporated into Newbury in the 17th century. It was named after Judge Byfield, a prominent figure in early Massachusetts history. The village is known for its well-preserved historic homes and buildings, some of which date back to the 18th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Byfield is home to a variety of natural attractions. The Parker River, which borders the village, provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The area also contains several parks and nature reserves, including the Upper Parker River Conservation Area and the Mill Pond Conservation Area, where residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
🏫 Education
Byfield is home to The Governor’s Academy, an independent school founded in 1763 and the oldest continuously operating independent boarding school in the United States. The Triton Regional School District, which serves the communities of Newbury, Rowley, and Salisbury, also has its administrative offices in Byfield.
🚧 Transportation
Byfield is served by several major roads, including Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1. The village is also within commuting distance of the Newburyport/Rockport Line of the MBTA Commuter Rail, providing access to Boston. Logan International Airport, located in Boston, is the nearest major airport.
📜 Trivia & Events
Byfield is known for its annual Byfield Days, a community event that features a parade, games, and other activities. The village is also home to the Byfield Community Arts Center, which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year. The community is also known for its historic Byfield Parish Church, which was established in 1702.