📍 Location & Geography
Hamilton is a charming town located in the northeastern part of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in Essex County and is part of the Greater Boston area. The town covers a total area of 14.9 square miles, of which 14.6 square miles is land and 0.3 square miles is water. Hamilton is known for its rolling landscapes, scenic views, and picturesque countryside.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Hamilton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.6213° N latitude and 70.8548° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hamilton is nestled in the North Shore region of Massachusetts, an area renowned for its historic towns and long stretches of beautiful coastline. The town shares its borders with several other towns including Wenham to the east, Topsfield and Ipswich to the north, and Essex to the northeast.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Hamilton has a population of approximately 8,188 residents. The town has a diverse demographic, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. The median age in Hamilton is around 37 years. The town is predominantly White, with minorities making up a small portion of the population.
🏛️ History
Hamilton was originally part of Ipswich, one of the oldest towns in the United States, and was incorporated as a separate town in 1793. It was named after Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. The town was primarily an agricultural community in its early years, but it later developed into a residential suburb.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hamilton is home to a variety of natural attractions, including parks, forests, and wetlands. The town is known for its commitment to conservation, with several protected areas such as the Myopia Hunt Club and Bradley Palmer State Park. Hamilton is also part of the Ipswich River Watershed, which provides opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and bird watching.
🏫 Education
Education in Hamilton is highly valued, with the town being served by the Hamilton-Wenham Regional School District. This includes an elementary school, a middle school, and Hamilton-Wenham Regional High School. The town is also home to Pingree School, a private secondary school, and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, an evangelical seminary.
🚧 Transportation
Hamilton is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) which provides commuter rail service from Hamilton/Wenham station to Boston’s North Station. The town is also easily accessible by car via Route 128, and Route 1A passes directly through the town.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hamilton is known for its equestrian heritage, with the Myopia Hunt Club hosting several horse-riding events throughout the year. The club also hosts the annual Labor Day Weekend Horse Show, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian events in the country. Hamilton is also home to the Patton Homestead, the former residence of General George S. Patton, which is now a museum and event venue.