The Big List of Cities

Category: C

  • Cambridge, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Cambridge is a city located in Middlesex County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated directly north of Boston, across the Charles River. The city covers an area of 16.5 square miles, of which 6.4 square miles is land and 0.1 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Cambridge, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.3736° N latitude and 71.1097° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Cambridge is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the tenth-largest metropolitan area in the United States. It is located in the eastern part of Massachusetts and is bordered by several towns and cities, including Boston to the south, Somerville and Arlington to the north, Belmont to the west, and Watertown to the southwest.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the city of Cambridge has a population of approximately 118,403 residents. The city is diverse, with a mix of racial and ethnic groups. The median age is around 30 years, reflecting a relatively young population, largely due to the presence of universities in the city.

    🏛️ History

    Cambridge was founded in 1630 as a Puritan village named “Newtowne”. It was renamed “Cambridge” in 1638, in honor of the University of Cambridge in England. The city played a significant role in the American Revolution and was a major center of the abolitionist movement in the 19th century. In the 20th century, Cambridge became known for its institutions of higher education and its contributions to technology and innovation.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Cambridge is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Charles River Reservation, a state park that offers walking and biking paths, and Fresh Pond Reservation, a local nature reserve. The city is committed to environmental sustainability, with initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the use of renewable energy.

    🏫 Education

    Cambridge is renowned for its educational institutions. It is home to two of the world’s most prestigious universities, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The city also has a highly regarded public school system, including Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, one of the oldest public high schools in the country.

    🚧 Transportation

    Cambridge has a robust public transportation system, served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which operates bus routes and subway lines throughout the city. The city is also bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. For drivers, several major highways, including Interstate 90 and Route 2, pass through or near Cambridge.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Cambridge is known for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year. These include the Cambridge Carnival, a Caribbean-style carnival, and the Cambridge Science Festival, the first of its kind in the United States. The city is also the birthplace of several famous individuals, including actors Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, and poet e.e. cummings.

  • Charlestown, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Charlestown is a historic neighborhood located in the northernmost part of Boston, in Suffolk County, Massachusetts. It is situated on a peninsula between the Charles River and the Mystic River. The city is known for its steep, hilly streets, and its waterfront which offers stunning views of the Boston skyline.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Charlestown, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.3782° N latitude and 71.0602° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Charlestown is part of the Greater Boston area, in the New England region of the United States. It covers an area of approximately 1.4 square miles, making it one of the smaller neighborhoods in Boston.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Charlestown has a population of approximately 17,208. The population is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. The majority of residents are White, followed by Hispanic, African American, and Asian populations.

    🏛️ History

    Charlestown was originally settled in 1628 by English Puritans and was the first capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. It played a significant role in the American Revolution, being the site of the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. In the 19th century, Charlestown became a major industrial center. It was incorporated into Boston in 1874.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Charlestown is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Charlestown Navy Yard, Paul Revere Park, and the Charlestown Community Gardens. The city is also adjacent to the Boston Harbor, providing opportunities for boating and waterfront activities.

    🏫 Education

    Charlestown is served by the Boston Public Schools system. It is home to several elementary schools, a middle school, and the Charlestown High School. The city also has a branch of the Boston Public Library.

    🚧 Transportation

    Charlestown is well-connected to the rest of Boston via public transportation. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates bus and subway services in the area. The city is also served by the MBTA’s commuter rail and ferry services. Major roads in Charlestown include the U.S. Route 1 and the Interstate 93.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Charlestown is famous for being the location of the Bunker Hill Monument, which commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, one of the first major battles in the American Revolution. Every year, the city hosts the Bunker Hill Day Parade, a popular local event that celebrates Charlestown’s rich history. The city was also the setting for the 2010 film “The Town”, directed by Ben Affleck.

  • Cohasset, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Cohasset is a charming town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated on the corner of the South Shore, between the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Boston. Cohasset spans a total area of 31.5 square miles, of which 9.9 square miles is land and 21.6 square miles is water. The town is known for its rocky shorelines, beautiful beaches, and scenic cliffs.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Cohasset, Massachusetts are approximately 42.24 degrees north latitude and 70.80 degrees west longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Cohasset is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in New England. The town is bordered by Hingham to the west and northwest, Scituate to the south and southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east and northeast. The ZIP code for Cohasset is 02025.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Cohasset has a population of approximately 8,075 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Asian, African American, Hispanic, or other races. The median age in the town is around 45 years.

    🏛️ History

    Cohasset was first seen by Europeans in 1614, when Captain John Smith explored the coast of New England. The area was not settled until 1670 and was originally part of Hingham. The town was officially incorporated in 1770. Cohasset’s early economy was based on fishing and farming, but it later became a popular summer resort town in the 19th century.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Cohasset is known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks, nature reserves, and beaches. The town is home to the Wompatuck State Park, Wheelwright Park, and the Whitney Thayer Woods. The coastline offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, with popular beaches including Sandy Beach and Black Rock Beach.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Cohasset is managed by the Cohasset Public Schools district, which includes an elementary school, a middle school, and a high school. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area.

    🚧 Transportation

    Cohasset is served by a number of major roads, including Route 3A. The town is also accessible via the MBTA Commuter Rail’s Greenbush Line, with a station in the village of Cohasset. Additionally, there are several bus lines that provide transportation within the town and to neighboring communities.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Cohasset is the setting for the 1987 film “The Witches of Eastwick”. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Cohasset Triathlon and the Cohasset Road Race by the Sea. The South Shore Music Circus, an outdoor music venue, is located in Cohasset and hosts a variety of concerts and performances each summer.

  • Canton, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Canton is a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the county and is bordered by the towns of Dedham, Westwood, Norwood, Sharon, Stoughton, and Milton. Canton is approximately 15 miles southwest of downtown Boston. The town is primarily suburban in nature with both urban and rural characteristics.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Canton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.1584° N latitude and 71.1448° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Canton is part of the Greater Boston area, a region in Massachusetts that includes most of the eastern part of the state. The town spans an area of 19.6 square miles, of which 18.9 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Canton had a population of approximately 23,768 people. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a significant Asian population and smaller numbers of African American, Hispanic, and other racial and ethnic groups. The median age in Canton is around 43 years, and the town has a slightly higher percentage of female residents than male.

    🏛️ History

    Canton was officially incorporated on February 23, 1797 from the town of Stoughton, Massachusetts. The name “Canton” was suggested as a tribute to the Chinese city, which was known for its role in the tea trade. The town played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution with the establishment of the Canton Viaduct in 1835, which is still in use today.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Canton is home to several parks and nature preserves. The Mass Audubon’s Museum of American Bird Art is a unique combination of art museum and wildlife sanctuary, while the Blue Hills Reservation offers hiking and skiing opportunities. The town is also part of the Neponset River Watershed, which provides important wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.

    🏫 Education

    Canton Public Schools serves the town, with one high school, one middle school, and three elementary schools. For higher education, Massasoit Community College has a campus located in Canton. The town also houses the Massachusetts Hospital School, a public school serving students with severe physical disabilities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Canton has two MBTA stations, Canton Junction and Canton Center, on the Providence/Stoughton Line, providing rail access to Boston and other parts of Massachusetts. Major roads include Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, and Massachusetts Route 138. The town is also served by the Norwood Memorial Airport, located just north of Canton.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Canton is the headquarters of several notable companies, including Dunkin’ Donuts, Computershare, and Organogenesis. The town also hosts an annual Winterfest in February, featuring a variety of winter-themed activities and events. The Canton Historical Society maintains the Canton Corner Historic District, which includes several historic buildings and sites.

  • Chelmsford, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Chelmsford is a town located in Middlesex County, in the northeastern part of the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is approximately 24 miles northwest of Boston and 40 miles northeast of Worcester. The town covers an area of 22.54 square miles, of which 22.22 square miles is land and 0.32 square miles is water. Chelmsford is bordered by the towns of Lowell to the north, Billerica to the east, Carlisle to the south, and Westford to the west.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.5998° N latitude and 71.3673° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Chelmsford is part of the Greater Lowell region and is also considered part of the Merrimack Valley area. The town is divided into several neighborhoods, including the town center, West Chelmsford, East Chelmsford, South Chelmsford, and North Chelmsford.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of Chelmsford was approximately 35,000. The town’s population is predominantly white, with a significant minority of Asian residents. Other ethnic groups, including African Americans and Hispanics, make up smaller percentages of the population. The median age in the town is around 44 years.

    🏛️ History

    Chelmsford was incorporated in May 1655 and was named after Chelmsford, England. The area was originally inhabited by the Pennacook Native Americans. During the 19th century, Chelmsford experienced significant growth due to the establishment of several mills along the Merrimack River and Stony Brook. The town’s historic sites include the Chelmsford Garrison House, a 1691 homestead, and the Barrett-Byam Homestead, the headquarters of the Chelmsford Historical Society.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Chelmsford is home to several parks and conservation areas, including the Great Brook Farm State Park, which offers hiking trails, a working dairy farm, and cross-country skiing. The town also has several smaller community parks and playgrounds. The Merrimack River and Stony Brook run through the town, providing opportunities for fishing and boating.

    🏫 Education

    Chelmsford Public Schools oversees the town’s public education system, which includes four elementary schools, two middle schools, and Chelmsford High School. The town also has several private schools, including the Chelmsford Montessori School. For higher education, residents have access to nearby institutions such as the University of Massachusetts Lowell and Middlesex Community College.

    🚧 Transportation

    Chelmsford is served by several major highways, including Interstate 495 and U.S. Route 3. The Lowell Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service in the area. The nearest train service is available in Lowell, which offers commuter rail service to Boston. The closest major airport is Boston Logan International Airport, approximately 35 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Chelmsford hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Fourth of July Parade and the Summer Concert Series at the town common. The town was also the site of a notable event in the early history of the telephone: in 1878, French’s Mill, located in North Chelmsford, became one of the first businesses in the world to use a telephone in its daily operations.