📍 Location & Geography
Colrain is a town located in Franklin County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the county, bordered by the towns of Heath and Charlemont to the north, Leyden to the east, Greenfield to the southeast, and Shelburne to the south. The western border of Colrain is formed by the Deerfield River, which separates it from the town of Buckland.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Colrain, Massachusetts are approximately 42.6736° N latitude and 72.7256° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Colrain is part of the Pioneer Valley region of Massachusetts, which is known for its rich history and scenic beauty. The town covers a total area of about 43.4 square miles (112.4 km²), of which 0.1 square miles (0.2 km²) or 0.16% is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Colrain was approximately 1,671. The town’s population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races. The median age in the town is around 44 years.
🏛️ History
Colrain was first settled in 1735 by a group of Irish immigrants and was officially incorporated as a town in 1761. It was named in honor of Lord Coleraine, an Irish peer. The town was primarily an agricultural community, with sheep farming being a major industry in the 19th century. The town also had a notable role in the Underground Railroad, with several documented sites where fugitive slaves were sheltered.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Colrain is known for its beautiful landscapes, which include rolling hills, forests, and the scenic Deerfield River. The town is home to the Catamount State Forest, which offers hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The town also has several conservation areas, including the Branch Hill and Lyons Hill conservation areas.
🏫 Education
Public education in Colrain is managed by the Mohawk Trail Regional School District. The town is home to the Colrain Central School, which serves students in kindergarten through sixth grade. For secondary education, students typically attend Mohawk Trail Regional High School, located in the nearby town of Buckland.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Colrain is primarily by road, with Massachusetts Route 112 serving as the main thoroughfare through the town. The nearest airport is Dillant–Hopkins Airport in Keene, New Hampshire, approximately 40 miles away. The Franklin Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation services in the area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Colrain hosts a town-wide yard sale, which is a popular event attracting visitors from all over the region. The town is also known for the Colrain Poetry Festival, which brings together poets and poetry enthusiasts for readings, workshops, and discussions. In addition, Colrain is home to the Griswold Memorial Library, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.