The Big List of Cities

Category: W

  • West Newton, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    West Newton is a village located in the city of Newton, in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. It is situated along the Charles River, which forms its southern border. The village has a diverse topography, with flat land along the river and hilly areas to the north.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of West Newton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.3506° N latitude and 71.2265° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    West Newton is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the most populous region in the New England states. The village covers a total area of 2.18 square miles, according to the United States Census Bureau.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, the population of West Newton was approximately 12,648. The village is ethnically diverse, with a mix of White, African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races. The median age is around 40 years, and there’s a nearly equal distribution of males and females.

    🏛️ History

    West Newton was first settled in the 17th century and was part of the city of Newton when it was incorporated in 1688. The village grew rapidly in the 19th century with the advent of the railroad, becoming a popular residential area for Boston commuters. Many of the historic homes and buildings from this period still stand today, adding to West Newton’s unique charm.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    West Newton is home to several parks and green spaces. The Charles River provides opportunities for boating and fishing, while the nearby Dolan Pond Conservation Area offers walking trails and wildlife viewing. The village is also known for its tree-lined streets and well-maintained gardens.

    🏫 Education

    Education in West Newton is provided by the Newton Public School District, which is known for its high-quality education. The village has several public and private schools, including the Peirce Elementary School and F.A. Day Middle School. Higher education opportunities are available in nearby Boston.

    🚧 Transportation

    West Newton is well-connected by road and rail. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) runs through the village, providing easy access to Boston and other parts of the state. The West Newton Commuter Rail Station offers regular service to downtown Boston. Additionally, several bus routes serve the area.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    West Newton has been featured in several films, including “The Judge” and “The Proposal.” The village also hosts an annual community day, which includes a parade, food vendors, and live entertainment. The West Newton Cinema, a historic movie theater, is a beloved local landmark that screens a mix of mainstream, independent, and foreign films.

  • Waltham, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Waltham is a city located in Middlesex County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated along the Charles River, approximately 10 miles west of downtown Boston. The city’s terrain is a mix of rolling hills, open fields, and lowlands, with the river providing a scenic backdrop.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Waltham, Massachusetts are approximately 42.3765° N latitude and 71.2356° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Waltham is part of the Greater Boston area, a region influential upon American history, academia, and industry. The city covers a total area of approximately 13.6 square miles, of which 12.7 square miles is land and 0.9 square miles is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Waltham has a population of approximately 63,000 residents. The city is diverse, with a mix of White, African American, Hispanic, Asian, and other races. The median age in Waltham is around 34 years, and the city has a slightly higher percentage of females than males.

    🏛️ History

    Waltham was first settled in 1634 as part of Watertown and was officially incorporated as a separate town in 1738. Waltham played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution; it was the site of the first integrated textile mill, the Boston Manufacturing Company, established in 1813. The city was also home to the Waltham Watch Company, a pioneer in the mass production of watches. Waltham was incorporated as a city in 1884.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Waltham is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Charles River Reservation, a state park that offers walking and biking trails, fishing, and boating. The city also has several conservation areas, such as the Prospect Hill Park, which offers panoramic views of the area. Waltham is committed to environmental sustainability and has initiatives in place to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy.

    🏫 Education

    Waltham is known for its strong educational institutions. The city is home to two universities: Brandeis University, a private research university, and Bentley University, a private institution known for its business programs. The Waltham Public Schools district serves the city’s K-12 students with several elementary, middle, and high schools.

    🚧 Transportation

    Waltham is well-connected by road and rail. Interstate 95/Route 128, which circles the city of Boston, passes through Waltham. The city is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), with two commuter rail stations providing easy access to Boston. Additionally, several bus routes run through the city. For air travel, Boston Logan International Airport is approximately 20 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Waltham is often referred to as “Watch City” due to its historical association with the watch industry. The city hosts the annual Waltham Day, a community event featuring food, music, and activities. Waltham also has a vibrant arts scene, with the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra, Waltham Symphony Orchestra, and several art galleries contributing to the city’s cultural richness.

  • Whitman, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Whitman is a charming city located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, United States. The city is situated in the southeastern part of the state and is approximately 22 miles south of the capital city, Boston. Whitman covers a total area of 7.0 square miles, of which 0.01 square miles is water, and the rest is land.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Whitman, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.0807° N latitude and 70.9356° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Whitman is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in New England. The city is surrounded by the towns of Abington to the northeast, Rockland to the east, Hanson to the south, and East Bridgewater to the west.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Whitman has a population of approximately 15,295 residents. The city is predominantly white, making up about 94.4% of the population. Other ethnic groups include African Americans (1.3%), Asians (1.1%), and Hispanics or Latinos (2.8%). The median age in Whitman is around 38.4 years.

    🏛️ History

    Whitman was first settled by Europeans in 1670 and was officially incorporated in 1875. The city was originally part of the neighboring town of Abington before it was separated. Whitman is known for its shoe manufacturing industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The city is named after Augustus Whitman, a notable local resident.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Whitman is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Whitman Town Park and the Hobart Pond. The city is characterized by its lush greenery and serene environment, making it a great place for nature lovers. The Hobart Pond is a popular spot for fishing and bird watching.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Whitman is administered by the Whitman-Hanson Regional School District. The city has several public schools, including Whitman-Hanson Regional High School, Whitman Middle School, and Conley Elementary School. Whitman also has a public library, the Whitman Public Library, which offers a variety of resources and programs for residents of all ages.

    🚧 Transportation

    Whitman is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, which provides commuter rail service from Whitman station to Boston’s South Station. Major roads that pass through the city include Route 18, Route 27, and Route 58. The nearest airport to Whitman is the Logan International Airport in Boston.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Whitman is famous as the birthplace of the chocolate chip cookie. Ruth Graves Wakefield invented the popular treat at the Toll House Inn in Whitman in the 1930s. Each year, the city celebrates the “Whitman Day” with a variety of events and activities for residents and visitors.

  • White Horse Beach, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    White Horse Beach is a charming coastal village located within the town of Plymouth, Massachusetts. It is situated in Plymouth County, on the South Shore region of the state. The beach, which the village is named after, is one of the largest beaches in the town. The area is characterized by its sandy beaches, quaint residential houses, and beautiful ocean views.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for White Horse Beach are approximately 41.9117° N latitude and 70.5792° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    White Horse Beach is part of the larger town of Plymouth, which is located in the South Shore region of Massachusetts. This region is known for its rich history, scenic coastline, and numerous recreational opportunities. The village itself is primarily residential, with a total area of approximately 1.4 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    White Horse Beach is a small community with a population that fluctuates seasonally due to its popularity as a summer vacation destination. The year-round population is estimated to be around 1,500 residents. The majority of the population is Caucasian, with a median age of around 45 years.

    🏛️ History

    White Horse Beach’s history is closely tied to that of Plymouth, which is famously known as the landing place of the Pilgrims in 1620. The beach is thought to have been named after the white horses that were once common in the area. Over the years, it has evolved from a farming community to a popular summer resort destination, attracting visitors from all over the region.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    White Horse Beach is known for its beautiful, sandy beach that stretches for over a mile along the Atlantic Ocean. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and marine life. The surrounding area features a mix of residential properties, wooded areas, and wetlands, providing a diverse range of habitats.

    🏫 Education

    Education in White Horse Beach is provided by the Plymouth School District, which offers a range of educational opportunities for students from kindergarten through high school. There are also several private schools and colleges within driving distance.

    🚧 Transportation

    White Horse Beach is easily accessible by car via Route 3A. The nearest airport is Plymouth Municipal Airport, which is about 10 miles away. The area is also served by the Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Co., which provides bus service to Boston and other nearby towns.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every year on the Fourth of July, White Horse Beach hosts a popular fireworks display that attracts visitors from all over the region. The beach is also a popular spot for a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The village is also known for its annual Labor Day parade, which is a beloved community tradition.

  • West Bridgewater, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    West Bridgewater is a town located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the western border of the city of Brockton and is approximately 25 miles south of Boston. The town is characterized by a mix of suburban and rural landscapes, with the Town River flowing through it.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for West Bridgewater are 42.0189° N latitude and 71.0077° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    West Bridgewater is part of the South Shore region of Massachusetts. It is a part of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town spans a total area of 15.7 square miles, of which 15.3 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, West Bridgewater had a population of approximately 7,505 residents. The town’s population is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races. The age distribution is fairly even, with a median age of 44.4 years.

    🏛️ History

    West Bridgewater was first settled in 1651 as a part of Olde Bridgewater. The town was officially incorporated in 1822, separating from Bridgewater. The town’s early economy was primarily agricultural, but it evolved over time to include a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial uses. West Bridgewater has a rich history with several historic sites, including the Keith House (1662), the oldest home in the town.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    West Bridgewater is home to War Memorial Park, a large public park that offers recreational activities like fishing, picnicking, and walking trails. The town also features the Hockomock Swamp, a significant wildlife habitat. Conservation is a priority in the town, with efforts to protect and enhance its natural resources and wildlife habitats.

    🏫 Education

    Education in West Bridgewater is managed by the West Bridgewater Public Schools district. The district includes the Howard School (for grades PreK-6), the West Bridgewater Middle-Senior High School (for grades 7-12), and the Spring Street School (for kindergarten). The town is also in proximity to several colleges and universities, including Bridgewater State University.

    🚧 Transportation

    West Bridgewater is served by several major highways, including Route 24, Route 106, and Route 28. Public transportation is provided by the Brockton Area Transit Authority, which offers bus service to Brockton and other nearby towns. The closest airport is the Brockton Municipal Airport, while the larger Logan International Airport in Boston is about 30 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    West Bridgewater hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Christmas on the Common and the Summer Concert Series. The town is also known for the War Memorial Park, which is dedicated to the memory of those who served in World War I and II. The park features a large granite monument and a tranquil pond, making it a popular spot for reflection and relaxation.