📍 Location & Geography
Easthampton is a picturesque city located in Hampshire County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the Pioneer Valley region of Western Massachusetts, nestled between the Mount Tom Range to the east and the Manhan River to the west. The city covers a total area of 13.6 square miles, of which 13.2 square miles is land and 0.39 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Easthampton, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.2668° N latitude and 72.6689° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Easthampton is part of the Springfield Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is part of the larger Springfield-Hartford Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is part of the Pioneer Valley, a region known for its fertile farmland and scenic landscapes. Easthampton covers a total area of 13.6 square miles, making it a small but vibrant part of the region.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Easthampton had a population of approximately 16,059. The city is predominantly white, with a significant number of residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The median age in the city is around 45 years. The city has a balanced gender distribution with a slight female majority.
🏛️ History
Easthampton was first settled by European immigrants in 1664 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1785. The city’s early economy was largely agricultural, but it began to industrialize in the 19th century with the establishment of several mills along the Manhan River. Easthampton officially became a city in 1996. The city’s rich history is reflected in its numerous historic buildings and districts, including the Easthampton Center Historic District and the New City Historic District.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Easthampton is known for its beautiful natural environment, which includes the Mount Tom Range and the Manhan River. The city has several parks and green spaces, including the Nonotuck Park and the Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. The city is also part of the Connecticut River Greenway State Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
🏫 Education
Easthampton is served by the Easthampton Public Schools district, which includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. The city is also home to Williston Northampton School, a private, coeducational college-preparatory school. For higher education, Easthampton residents have access to several colleges and universities in the surrounding region, including Smith College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
🚧 Transportation
Easthampton is served by several major roads, including U.S. Route 5 and Massachusetts Route 10. The city is also accessible via Interstate 91, which is located a few miles to the east. Public transportation is provided by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, which operates bus routes in the city. The nearest airport is Bradley International Airport, located about 30 miles south of the city in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
📜 Trivia & Events
Easthampton hosts several annual events, including the Cultural Chaos Street Festival and the Art Walk Easthampton, which showcases the city’s vibrant arts scene. Easthampton is also home to the Nashawannuck Pond, which is known for its annual winter ice harvest festival. The city’s Button Building, a former button factory that has been converted into artist studios, is a testament to Easthampton’s transformation from a mill town to a center for arts and culture.