📍 Location & Geography
Hardwick is a charming town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the central part of the state, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and lush forests. The town covers a total area of approximately 40.9 square miles, of which 40.2 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Hardwick, Massachusetts are approximately 42° 35′ 0″ N latitude and 72° 13′ 0″ W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hardwick is part of the New England region, specifically in the central part of Massachusetts. The town is part of Worcester County, the second-most populous county in the state. It is divided into several villages including Gilbertville, Wheelwright, and Hardwick village.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Hardwick has a population of approximately 3,000 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of the population being African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Hardwick was first settled by Europeans in 1737 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1739. It was named after Lord Hardwicke, a British nobleman. The town played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. In the 19th century, Hardwick prospered due to the booming textile industry, with several mills established in the town.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hardwick is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring a variety of landscapes from forests and hills to bodies of water. The town is home to the Ware River and Muddy Brook. It also boasts several conservation areas and parks, such as the Hardwick Pond Conservation Area and the Muddy Brook Wildlife Management Area, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
🏫 Education
Education in Hardwick is served by the Quabbin Regional School District. The town has an elementary school, Hardwick Elementary School, for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 6. For secondary education, students attend Quabbin Regional Middle School and Quabbin Regional High School, both located in the nearby town of Barre.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Hardwick is primarily by road, with several state and local routes passing through the town, including Massachusetts Route 32 and Route 32A. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 30 miles away. Public transportation services are limited, making private vehicles the primary means of transportation.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hardwick is known for its annual Hardwick Community Fair, the oldest fair of its kind in the United States, which features agricultural exhibits, crafts, food, and entertainment. The town is also home to the Hardwick Vineyard and Winery, a family-run winery that offers wine tastings and tours. A notable historical site in the town is the Paige Memorial Library, which was built in 1889 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.