📍 Location & Geography
Concord is a small, picturesque town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated about 20 miles west of Boston. The town covers an area of 25.9 square miles, of which 1.8 square miles is water. Concord is characterized by rolling hills and meandering rivers, including the Concord River, the Sudbury River, and the Assabet River.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Concord, Massachusetts are approximately 42.4604° N latitude and 71.3489° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Concord is part of the Greater Boston metropolitan area, in the New England region of the northeastern United States. The town is surrounded by several other Massachusetts communities, including Acton to the north, Sudbury to the west, and Lincoln to the east.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Concord was approximately 18,000. The demographic composition is predominantly white, with a significant minority of Asian residents and smaller populations of Hispanic and African American residents. The median age in Concord is higher than the national average, reflecting the town’s appeal to retirees and older professionals.
🏛️ History
Concord was first settled by English immigrants in 1635, making it one of the oldest towns in New England. The town played a significant role in the early history of the United States, as it was the site of the first battle of the American Revolutionary War, the Battle of Lexington and Concord, in 1775. In the 19th century, Concord became a hub of the literary and philosophical movement known as Transcendentalism, with residents including authors Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and Louisa May Alcott.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Concord is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring a mix of forests, meadows, and wetlands. The town is home to the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area that provides habitat for a wide variety of bird species. Walden Pond, made famous by Thoreau’s book “Walden,” is a popular destination for swimming, hiking, and bird-watching.
🏫 Education
Concord has a strong educational system, with highly rated public schools and several private institutions. The town is served by the Concord Public Schools district, which includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and Concord-Carlisle High School. Concord is also home to the prestigious Middlesex School, a private preparatory school.
🚧 Transportation
Concord is served by several major highways, including Route 2 and Interstate 95. The town is also accessible by public transportation, with commuter rail service to Boston provided by the MBTA’s Fitchburg Line. Additionally, Concord has a number of bike paths and walking trails, reflecting the town’s commitment to outdoor recreation and sustainable transportation.
📜 Trivia & Events
Concord has a rich literary history and is known as the birthplace of American literature. It was home to famous authors like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and Louisa May Alcott, whose homes are now historical sites open to the public. The town also hosts an annual Patriots’ Day parade to commemorate the Battle of Lexington and Concord, featuring reenactments, music, and other festivities.