📍 Location & Geography
Dalton is a charming town located in Berkshire County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It’s situated in the western part of the state, nestled in the scenic Berkshire Hills. The town is surrounded by several natural features, including the East Branch of the Housatonic River, which flows through the center of the town, and the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the eastern part of Dalton.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Dalton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.47 degrees North latitude and 73.16 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Dalton is part of the Pittsfield, Massachusetts Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town covers a total area of about 21.9 square miles, of which 21.5 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Dalton had a population of approximately 6,756 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of around 44 years. The population is predominantly White, with minorities including African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Dalton was first settled in 1755 and was officially incorporated in 1784. The town was named after Tristram Dalton, the Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives at the time. Dalton was primarily an agricultural community until the mid-19th century when paper manufacturing became the dominant industry. The Crane & Co., the main paper company, has been a significant part of Dalton’s economy since 1801 and continues to be a major employer in the town.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Dalton is known for its natural beauty, with several parks, forests, and bodies of water. The Appalachian Trail, a popular long-distance hiking path, passes through the town, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is also home to the Wahconah Falls State Park, which features a beautiful waterfall and picnic areas. Dalton’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its participation in community-wide initiatives like tree planting and clean-up events.
🏫 Education
Education in Dalton is served by the Central Berkshire Regional School District. The town has several educational institutions including Craneville Elementary School, Nessacus Regional Middle School, and Wahconah Regional High School. For higher education, residents have access to numerous colleges and universities within a short driving distance, including Berkshire Community College and Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.
🚧 Transportation
Dalton is served by several major roads, including Route 8 and Route 9. The town is also accessible via the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority, which provides public bus service. The nearest airport is Pittsfield Municipal Airport, located about 5 miles from the town center.
📜 Trivia & Events
Dalton is home to Crane & Co., which has produced the paper for U.S. currency since 1879. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Dalton CRA Fair, a popular summer event featuring games, rides, and food. Additionally, Dalton is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing local artists’ work.