The Big List of Cities

Category: W

  • West Tisbury, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    West Tisbury is a charming town located in Dukes County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the western side of the island of Martha’s Vineyard, which is part of the Elizabeth Islands chain. The town is bordered by Vineyard Sound to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and the towns of Chilmark to the west and Tisbury to the east. West Tisbury encompasses a total area of 34.0 square miles, of which 26.4 square miles is land and 7.6 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of West Tisbury, Massachusetts are approximately 41.38 degrees north latitude and 70.68 degrees west longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    West Tisbury is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is located in Dukes County on Martha’s Vineyard, the third largest island on the East Coast of the United States. The town is part of the Vineyard Haven, MA Metropolitan Statistical Area.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of West Tisbury was approximately 2,800 residents. The town is known for its diverse community with a mix of year-round residents and seasonal visitors. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    West Tisbury was first settled by English settlers in 1669 as part of the town of Tisbury. The town was officially incorporated in 1892 when it was separated from Tisbury. The town has a rich agricultural history and was known for its sheep farming in the 19th century. Today, it is known for its rural character, historic homes, and beautiful landscapes.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    West Tisbury is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring a mix of rolling hills, open fields, and dense woods. The town is home to several nature reserves, including the Long Point Wildlife Refuge, Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary, and the Polly Hill Arboretum. These areas offer hiking trails, bird watching, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The town also has several beautiful beaches, including Lambert’s Cove Beach and Long Point Beach.

    🏫 Education

    Education in West Tisbury is managed by the Martha’s Vineyard Regional School District. The town has one elementary school, the West Tisbury School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students attend the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School located in the neighboring town of Oak Bluffs.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in West Tisbury is primarily by car, with State Route 28 and State Route 118 serving as the town’s main thoroughfares. The Martha’s Vineyard Airport, located partially in West Tisbury, provides air travel to and from the island. The Vineyard Transit Authority provides public bus transportation throughout the island, including West Tisbury.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    West Tisbury hosts several annual events, including the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair, which takes place in August and features livestock shows, local food, and craft exhibits. The town is also home to the West Tisbury Farmer’s Market, one of the oldest farmer’s markets in Massachusetts. A notable trivia about West Tisbury is that it was the summer residence of former U.S. President Barack Obama and his family.

  • West Falmouth, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    West Falmouth is a charming coastal village located in the town of Falmouth, within the county of Barnstable, Massachusetts. It is situated on the southwest corner of Cape Cod, bordered by Buzzards Bay to the west. The geography of West Falmouth is characterized by a blend of sandy beaches, marshes, and residential areas. The village’s ZIP code is 02574.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of West Falmouth, Massachusetts are approximately 41.6042° N latitude and 70.6368° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    West Falmouth is part of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, known for its maritime history, seafood, and picturesque coastal scenery. The village is part of the larger town of Falmouth, which covers an area of approximately 44.2 square miles, with a significant portion of this area being water, including ponds, rivers, and a section of the Atlantic Ocean.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    While specific population data for West Falmouth is not separately available, the larger town of Falmouth, of which West Falmouth is a part, had a population of approximately 31,531 as of the 2010 U.S. Census. The demographics of Falmouth are predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Asian, and other races. The median age in the town is around 51 years.

    🏛️ History

    West Falmouth was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag Native American tribe. European settlement began in the 17th century, with the town of Falmouth being incorporated in 1686. West Falmouth developed as a maritime and farming community, with shipbuilding and whaling being significant industries in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it is known for its historic buildings, including many well-preserved examples of Colonial, Federal, and Victorian architecture.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    West Falmouth boasts a beautiful natural environment, with a variety of landscapes from beaches to marshes. The village is home to the West Falmouth Harbor, a popular spot for boating and fishing. Chapoquoit Beach, a local favorite, offers stunning views of Buzzards Bay. The Shining Sea Bikeway, a scenic 11-mile path, passes through West Falmouth, offering cyclists and pedestrians a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

    🏫 Education

    Education in West Falmouth is provided by the Falmouth Public Schools district, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. West Falmouth is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Cape Cod Community College and Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in West Falmouth primarily revolves around road travel, with Massachusetts Route 28 being the main thoroughfare. The village is also served by the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, which provides public bus service. The nearest airport is Barnstable Municipal Airport, located in Hyannis. The Shining Sea Bikeway offers a greener alternative for local travel, connecting West Falmouth to other parts of Falmouth and Woods Hole.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    West Falmouth is home to the West Falmouth Library, which was founded in 1876 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The village also hosts several events throughout the year, including the West Falmouth Village Association’s annual Strawberry Festival, which celebrates the local strawberry harvest with food, music, and crafts. The Falmouth Road Race, a major 7-mile race that attracts runners from around the world, also passes through West Falmouth.

  • West Chop, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    West Chop is a small, coastal community located in the town of Tisbury, on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, in Dukes County, Massachusetts. It is situated on the western side of the entrance to Vineyard Haven Harbor and is known for its picturesque lighthouse, the West Chop Light.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of West Chop, Massachusetts are approximately 41.4670° N latitude, 70.6036° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    West Chop is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, which is part of Dukes County, Massachusetts. The area is primarily residential, with a mix of year-round and seasonal homes.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As West Chop is a small community within the town of Tisbury, it does not have its own separate population count. However, the town of Tisbury, which includes West Chop, had a population of approximately 4,627 according to the 2020 U.S. Census. The demographics of Tisbury are diverse, with a mix of different age groups, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds.

    🏛️ History

    West Chop is steeped in history, with its lighthouse being a significant landmark. The West Chop Light was first established in 1817, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in Massachusetts. The area was originally a popular summer resort for wealthy families from Boston and New York during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    West Chop boasts a beautiful natural environment, with stunning coastal views, sandy beaches, and lush greenery. The area is home to a variety of local wildlife and is a popular spot for bird watching. The West Chop Woods, a 90-acre nature reserve, offers walking trails through a mix of hardwood forest and wetlands.

    🏫 Education

    Education in West Chop is provided by the Tisbury School District, which serves the entire town of Tisbury. The district offers education from kindergarten through 8th grade. For high school education, students typically attend the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation to and from West Chop is primarily by car or bicycle, with several scenic bike paths available. The Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority provides public bus service throughout the island, including West Chop. The nearest airport is the Martha’s Vineyard Airport, located about 6 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    West Chop is known for its summer community events, including concerts, art shows, and sailing regattas. The West Chop Club, a private social club, is a hub for many of these events. The West Chop Lighthouse, while not open to the public, is a popular subject for photographers and artists due to its historic charm and scenic location.

  • Wareham, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Wareham is a town located in Plymouth County in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the south coast of Massachusetts, bordered by Bourne to the east, Marion to the south, Middleborough to the west, and Carver and Plymouth to the north. The town covers a total area of 46.3 square miles, of which 35.8 square miles is land and 10.5 square miles is water. The town’s geography is characterized by numerous bodies of water including the Wareham River, Weweantic River, and Buzzards Bay.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates for Wareham are approximately 41.76 degrees north latitude and 70.72 degrees west longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Wareham is part of the South Shore region of Massachusetts and is often referred to as the “Gateway to Cape Cod” due to its location at the head of the Cape Cod Canal. The town is divided into several villages including Wareham Village, West Wareham, East Wareham, and Onset.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of Wareham was approximately 22,000. The population is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age in the town is around 44 years. The town has a slightly higher percentage of females (approximately 52%) compared to males.

    🏛️ History

    Wareham was first settled by Europeans in 1678 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1739. The town was named after the town of Wareham in England. Wareham’s early economy was based on agriculture, fishing, and shipbuilding. In the 19th century, the town became a popular summer resort destination, a reputation it still holds today.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Wareham is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring numerous beaches, ponds, and parks. The town is home to the Myles Standish State Forest, the largest publicly owned recreation area in southeastern Massachusetts. Wareham also has several conservation areas, including the Great Neck Wildlife Sanctuary and the Wareham Land Trust.

    🏫 Education

    Wareham is served by the Wareham Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Wareham High School. The town is also home to the private, co-educational, college preparatory school, Tabor Academy. For higher education, Massachusetts Maritime Academy is located nearby in Buzzards Bay.

    🚧 Transportation

    Wareham is accessible by several major highways including Interstate 495, U.S. Route 6, and Massachusetts Route 28. The town is also served by the CapeFLYER, a seasonal passenger train that connects Boston to Cape Cod. The nearest airport is New Bedford Regional Airport, located about 20 miles to the west.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Wareham is known for its annual summer events, including the Wareham Oyster Festival and the Onset Blues Festival. The town is also home to the Tremont Nail Factory, one of the oldest nail manufacturers in the U.S., which is now a historic district. Wareham was also the filming location for the 2001 movie “Shallow Hal.”

  • Woods Hole, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Woods Hole is a charming seaside village located in the town of Falmouth, in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It is situated on the southwestern tip of Cape Cod, a peninsula in the northeastern United States. The village is surrounded by water and is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Eel Pond, a small inlet of the harbor, and the Nobska Point Lighthouse.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Woods Hole are approximately 41.5265° N latitude and 70.6736° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Woods Hole is part of the Cape Cod region, an area known for its beaches, lighthouses, and historic sites. The village itself covers a relatively small area, with a land area of just 3.9 square miles. It is bordered by the Vineyard Sound to the south, Buzzards Bay to the west, and the town of Falmouth to the north and east.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the last census, the population of Woods Hole was approximately 781. The village has a diverse demographic, with a mix of families, retirees, and students. The median age is around 57 years, which is higher than the Massachusetts average. The population tends to fluctuate seasonally, with an influx of visitors and seasonal residents during the summer months.

    🏛️ History

    Woods Hole was originally settled by Europeans in the 17th century and was named after the Woods family, early settlers in the area. The village’s location made it a significant maritime center, and it was known for its shipbuilding and whaling industries. In the late 19th century, Woods Hole began to develop as a center for oceanographic research, a reputation it maintains to this day.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Woods Hole is known for its beautiful natural environment, including several beaches, hiking trails, and marine ecosystems. The village is home to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, which conducts research on marine life and ecosystems. The area’s natural beauty and biodiversity make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

    🏫 Education

    Woods Hole is home to several world-renowned educational and research institutions. These include the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the Marine Biological Laboratory, and the Woods Hole Research Center. The village is also served by the Falmouth Public Schools system, which includes a number of elementary, middle, and high schools.

    🚧 Transportation

    Woods Hole is accessible by road, sea, and air. The village is served by Route 28, which provides access to other parts of Cape Cod and the mainland. The Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket Steamship Authority operates ferry services from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. The nearest airport is the Barnstable Municipal Airport, located about 20 miles north of the village.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Woods Hole is known for its annual events, including the Woods Hole Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world. The village is also the starting point for the Falmouth Road Race, a popular 7-mile race that attracts runners from across the country. Trivia fans might be interested to know that the Alvin, a deep-sea submersible that explored the wreck of the Titanic, was developed and is maintained at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.