📍 Location & Geography
Hopedale is a charming town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the central part of the state and is approximately 25 miles southwest of the state capital, Boston. The town covers a total area of 5.3 square miles, of which 5.2 square miles is land and 0.1 square miles is water. The town is mostly flat with several small hills and is surrounded by the towns of Milford, Mendon, and Upton.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Hopedale, Massachusetts are approximately 42.13 degrees north latitude and 71.54 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hopedale is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It falls within the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, an area of special national significance due to its unique cultural and historical legacy. The town is part of the Milford micropolitan statistical area, which is also included in the Boston-Worcester-Providence combined statistical area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Hopedale has a population of around 5,920 residents. The town has a diverse age group with a median age of 42.6 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of Asian, African American, and other races. The population is fairly evenly split between males and females.
🏛️ History
Hopedale was first settled in 1660 and was originally a part of Mendon, Massachusetts. It became a separate town in 1841 when it was incorporated as the town of Milford. In 1886, Hopedale separated from Milford and became its own town. The town was known for its role in the early industrial revolution, particularly for the Draper Corporation, which produced textile looms and other industrial machinery.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hopedale is home to the Hopedale Pond, a popular spot for boating and fishing. The town also has several parks and green spaces, including the Hopedale Parklands, a 275-acre park that offers trails for walking, running, and biking. The town is committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented various measures to preserve its natural resources.
🏫 Education
Hopedale Public Schools serve the town, which includes Memorial Elementary School, Hopedale Junior Senior High School. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and the University of Massachusetts Medical School.
🚧 Transportation
Hopedale is served by several major roads, including Route 140 and Route 16. The town is also close to Interstate 495, providing easy access to Boston and other major cities in the region. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, which is about 30 miles away. Public transportation in the area is provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hopedale hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Hopedale Day in the Park, a community celebration featuring food, music, and entertainment. The town is also home to the Little Red Shop Museum, a historic building that once served as a factory for the Draper Corporation. The museum now showcases the town’s rich industrial history.