📍 Location & Geography
Hopkinton is a town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state and is known for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, lush forests, and beautiful lakes. The town covers a total area of 28.2 square miles, of which 1.1 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Hopkinton are approximately 42.2287° N latitude and 71.5226° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hopkinton is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in the state of Massachusetts. It is approximately 26 miles west of Boston, the state capital. The town is bordered by Upton on the southwest, Westborough and Southborough to the north, Ashland to the northeast, and Holliston to the east.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the United States Census Bureau, Hopkinton had a population of approximately 18,000 as of 2020. The town has a diverse demographic makeup, with a mix of different age groups, ethnicities, and backgrounds. The majority of the population is Caucasian, with a significant representation from Asian, African American, and Hispanic communities.
🏛️ History
Hopkinton was first settled by Europeans in 1715 and was officially incorporated in 1718. The town was named after Edward Hopkins, who left a large sum of money to Harvard College, which was used to found Hopkinton. The town has a rich history and is best known for being the starting point of the Boston Marathon.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hopkinton is home to several parks and nature reserves. The Hopkinton State Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities, features a beach, picnic areas, and trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The town also has several bodies of water, including Whitehall Reservoir and Lake Maspenock, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
🏫 Education
The town of Hopkinton boasts a strong education system. Public schools in Hopkinton are managed by the Hopkinton Public School District, which includes Hopkinton High School, Hopkinton Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Framingham State University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
🚧 Transportation
Hopkinton is well-connected by road and public transportation. Interstate 495 runs through the town, providing easy access to other parts of the state. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides commuter rail service from nearby Ashland and Southborough to Boston. The town also has several bike paths and walking trails for local commuting.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hopkinton is famous for being the starting point of the Boston Marathon, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious annual marathons. The race starts in Hopkinton on Patriots’ Day, the third Monday in April, and attracts runners from around the world. The town also hosts the annual Polyarts Festival, a showcase for local artists and craftspeople.