📍 Location & Geography
Hingham is a charming town located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on Boston’s South Shore, approximately 15 miles south of downtown Boston. Hingham covers a total area of 26.35 square miles, of which 22.23 square miles is land and 4.12 square miles is water. The town is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Hingham Bay to the north.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Hingham, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.2418° N latitude and 70.8898° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hingham is part of the Greater Boston region of Massachusetts. The town is divided into several distinct sections, including Hingham Center, West Hingham, South Hingham, and Hingham Harbor. It is surrounded by the towns of Cohasset, Scituate, Norwell, Hanover, and Weymouth.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Hingham had a population of approximately 23,120 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of Asian, African American, and Hispanic residents. The median age in Hingham is around 44 years. The town has a high rate of homeownership, with many families residing in Hingham for generations.
🏛️ History
Hingham was first settled by English colonists in 1633 and was officially incorporated in 1635. The town was named after Hingham, a village in the English county of Norfolk. Hingham has a rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War and is known for its well-preserved 17th and 18th-century architecture. The Old Ship Church, built in 1681, is the oldest church in America in continuous use as a place of worship.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hingham is known for its scenic beauty and abundant natural resources. The town is home to the World’s End, a 251-acre park and conservation area that offers stunning views of the Boston skyline. Other notable natural attractions include Bare Cove Park, Wompatuck State Park, and the Hingham Harbor. The town is committed to preserving its natural environment and has several initiatives in place to promote sustainability and conservation.
🏫 Education
Hingham boasts a highly rated public school system, which includes four elementary schools, one middle school, and Hingham High School. The town is also home to Notre Dame Academy, a private, all-girls Catholic school. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Hingham is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which provides bus and commuter rail service to Boston and other nearby towns. The town also has a ferry terminal, the Hingham Shipyard, which offers ferry service to Boston and Logan International Airport. Major highways serving Hingham include Route 3, Route 228, and Route 53.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hingham is known for its annual Fourth of July Parade, which is one of the oldest and largest in the country. The town is also home to the South Shore Country Club, a historic club that offers golf, bowling, and other recreational activities. Fun fact: Hingham is the birthplace of 16th U.S. President Abraham Lincoln’s ancestors, and the town’s Lincoln Street is named in their honor.