📍 Location & Geography
Dedham is a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. It is located on Boston’s southwest border. Dedham is bordered by Needham to the north, Westwood to the west, and Canton and West Roxbury to the south. The town covers a total area of 10.6 square miles, of which 10.4 square miles is land and 0.2 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Dedham, Massachusetts are approximately 42.2418° N latitude and 71.1662° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Dedham is part of the Greater Boston area, which is located in the northeastern region of the United States. The town covers a total area of 10.6 square miles. It is part of Norfolk County.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Dedham has a population of approximately 25,364 residents. The town has a diverse demographic makeup, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age of the residents is 43.4 years.
🏛️ History
Dedham was first settled by Europeans in 1635 and was officially incorporated in 1636. It was named after Dedham, Essex in England. The town was the site of the first taxpayer-funded public school, the Fairbanks House, and the oldest surviving timber-frame house in North America that has been continuously inhabited.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Dedham is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including Wilson Mountain Reservation and Dolan Recreation Center. Dedham also has several bodies of water, including the Charles River and Mother Brook.
🏫 Education
The Dedham Public Schools district serves the town, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Dedham High School. The town is also home to Dedham Country Day School, a private day school, and Noble and Greenough, a private coeducational day and boarding school.
🚧 Transportation
Dedham is served by three stops on the MBTA Commuter Rail’s Franklin Line: Endicott, Dedham Corporate, and Readville. The town is also served by several MBTA bus routes. Major highways that pass through Dedham include Interstate 95 and Route 1.
📜 Trivia & Events
Dedham is known for its annual Flag Day parade, one of the largest in the country. The town also holds an annual Dedham Day celebration. Dedham Pottery, produced in the town from 1896 to 1943, is recognized for its distinctive crackle glaze and blue-and-white designs.