📍 Location & Geography
Groveland is a charming town located in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 34 miles north of Boston. Groveland is bordered by Haverhill to the north, Boxford to the south, Georgetown to the east, and West Newbury to the west. The town covers a total area of 9.0 square miles, of which 8.3 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water. The town is primarily residential, with a mix of suburban and rural characteristics.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Groveland, Massachusetts are approximately 42.75° N latitude and 71.03° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Groveland is part of the Merrimack Valley region, a collection of cities and towns in northeastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire centered around the Merrimack River. The town is part of the Greater Boston area, a region with significant economic and cultural influence.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Groveland had a population of approximately 6,500 residents. The town has a predominantly white demographic, with smaller populations of African American, Hispanic, Asian, and other races. The median age in Groveland is around 45 years, and the town has a slightly higher percentage of female residents compared to male residents.
🏛️ History
Groveland was initially part of Rowley and was known as “Rowley on the Merrimack,” or “Merrimack Lands,” in the 1600s. It was later incorporated as a separate town in 1850 and was named Groveland for its idyllic, grove-like setting. The town’s history is marked by agricultural and industrial development, with notable industries including shoe manufacturing and ice harvesting.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Groveland is known for its scenic beauty, characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and the picturesque Merrimack River. The town is home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Veasey Memorial Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the river. The town is committed to environmental preservation and sustainability, with initiatives aimed at conserving natural resources and promoting green living.
🏫 Education
Education in Groveland is managed by the Pentucket Regional School District, which also serves the neighboring towns of West Newbury and Merrimac. The town has one elementary school, the Dr. Elmer S. Bagnall Elementary School. Middle and high school students attend the Pentucket Regional Middle School and Pentucket Regional High School, located in West Newbury.
🚧 Transportation
Groveland is served by several major roads, including Massachusetts Route 97 and Route 113. The town is approximately a 20-minute drive from Interstate 95 and Interstate 495. Public transportation is provided by the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority, which offers bus service to surrounding towns and cities. The nearest train station is located in Haverhill, providing commuter rail service to Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
Groveland is known for its annual events, including the Groveland Days Festival, which features a parade, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The town also hosts an annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the town center. A notable piece of trivia is that Groveland is one of the few towns in Massachusetts that still does not have any traffic lights.