📍 Location & Geography
Fairhaven is a coastal town located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the southern coast of the state, between the cities of New Bedford and Acushnet. Fairhaven is bordered by the Acushnet River to the west, Buzzards Bay to the south, and the Mattapoisett town line to the east. The town covers a total area of 29.0 square miles, of which 12.4 square miles is land and 16.6 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Fairhaven, Massachusetts are approximately 41.6376° N latitude and 70.9036° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Fairhaven is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located in the southern part of Bristol County in Massachusetts. The town’s total area is 29.0 square miles, with a significant portion of this area being covered by water bodies, including the Acushnet River and Buzzards Bay.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Fairhaven was approximately 15,873 as of 2020. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.8 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with smaller populations of Hispanic, African American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Fairhaven was first settled in 1659 and was officially incorporated in 1812. The town has a rich maritime history and was once a major whaling port. Its historical significance is evident in its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, including the Gothic-style Unitarian Church and the Town Hall, both designed by local shipbuilder and artist, Henry Huttleston Rogers.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Fairhaven is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes. The town has several parks and recreational areas, including Fort Phoenix State Reservation, which offers stunning views of Buzzards Bay. The Phoenix Bike Trail is a popular route for cyclists and walkers, stretching from the center of Fairhaven to Mattapoisett. The town is also home to the Nasketucket Bay State Reservation, a coastal ecosystem that provides habitat for a variety of wildlife.
🏫 Education
Education in Fairhaven is managed by the Fairhaven School District, which operates several schools including Fairhaven High School, Hastings Middle School, and East Fairhaven and Leroy L. Wood elementary schools. The town also has a number of private schools and is in close proximity to higher education institutions such as the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
🚧 Transportation
Fairhaven is served by a number of major roads, including Interstate 195 and U.S. Route 6. The town is also accessible by sea, with a harbor that accommodates both commercial and recreational vessels. Public transportation is provided by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA), which operates bus routes connecting Fairhaven to neighboring cities.
📜 Trivia & Events
Fairhaven is home to a number of annual events, including the Fairhaven Homecoming Day Fair, which features a road race, parade, and local vendors. The town is also known for its historical buildings, including the Fairhaven High School, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town’s Fort Phoenix is a historical site where one of the first naval battles of the American Revolution took place.