📍 Location & Geography
Dudley is a small town located in the U.S. state of Massachusetts. It is situated in the southern part of Worcester County, along the Connecticut border. The town is surrounded by several communities, including Webster to the east, Oxford and Charlton to the north, and Southbridge to the west. Dudley covers a total area of 22.1 square miles, of which 1.9 square miles is water. The town is characterized by a mix of residential, agricultural, and commercial land uses.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Dudley, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0434° N latitude and 71.9356° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Dudley is part of the New England region of the United States, specifically located within the central part of Massachusetts. The town covers a total area of 22.1 square miles, of which 20.2 square miles is land and 1.9 square miles, or 8.58%, is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Dudley had a population of 11,390. The population density was 563.9 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was predominantly White, with a small percentage of African American, Asian, and other races. The median age was 38.2 years.
🏛️ History
Dudley was first settled by Europeans in 1714 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1732. The town was named after landholders Paul and William Dudley. Dudley’s history is marked by its early textile mills, powered by the Quinebaug River, which runs through the town. Over the years, Dudley has transitioned from a primarily agricultural and manufacturing community to a more residential town.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Dudley is home to several bodies of water, including Merino Pond and the Quinebaug River. The town also features numerous recreational areas such as the Dudley Conservation Land, which offers trails for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. The town is committed to preserving its natural resources and has implemented several conservation efforts to protect its environment.
🏫 Education
Education in Dudley is managed by the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District. The town is home to several schools, including Mason Road School, Dudley Elementary School, Dudley Middle School, and Shepherd Hill Regional High School. Dudley is also home to Nichols College, a private four-year institution known for its business and leadership programs.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Dudley is primarily by road, with easy access to several major highways including Interstate 395 and Route 12. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles north of Dudley. Public transportation services are provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority.
📜 Trivia & Events
Dudley hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Dudley Grange Fair and the Dudley Do-Right Parade. The town is also known for being home to Nichols College, which hosts various academic and cultural events. In addition, Dudley is the site of the Black Tavern, a historic building dating back to 1803, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.