📍 Location & Geography
Norton is a small and charming city located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, approximately 22 miles south of Boston. The city covers a total area of 29.8 square miles, of which 28.7 square miles is land and 1.1 square miles is water. The city is surrounded by Easton to the northeast, Taunton to the southeast, Rehoboth to the south, Attleboro to the southwest, and Mansfield to the northwest.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates for Norton are 41.9668° N latitude and 71.1862° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Norton is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It falls within the Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s South Shore Coalition region. The city is primarily residential, and it is divided into different neighborhoods, including Norton Center, Chartley, and Barrowsville.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Norton has a population of approximately 19,031 residents. The city has a diverse demographic makeup, with a mix of various age groups and ethnicities. The median age in the city is around 38 years. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White, followed by African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other racial groups.
🏛️ History
Norton was first settled in 1669 and was officially incorporated in 1710. The city was originally part of Taunton, a nearby city in Bristol County. Norton got its name in honor of Norton, Oxfordshire, England. Over the years, the city has seen significant growth and development, especially in the 20th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Norton is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The city is home to several parks, forests, and water bodies. The Norton Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing and boating, is one of the city’s most notable natural features. The city also has several walking and biking trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
🏫 Education
Norton is served by the Norton Public Schools district, which includes the L.G. Nourse Elementary School, H.A. Yelle Elementary School, Norton Middle School, and Norton High School. The city is also home to Wheaton College, a private liberal arts college known for its interdisciplinary curriculum.
🚧 Transportation
The city has a well-connected transportation network. Interstate 495 runs through Norton, providing easy access to other parts of the state. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority provides commuter rail service from the nearby Mansfield station to Boston. Additionally, the city has several local and regional bus services.
📜 Trivia & Events
Norton is home to the Tournament Players Club (TPC) of Boston, which hosts the annual Northern Trust golf tournament. The city also hosts the annual Norton Founders Day celebration, which includes a parade, fireworks, and various community activities. Norton is also known for its rich history and has several historic sites, including the Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary, a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and care of abandoned and mistreated animals.