📍 Location & Geography
Littleton, Massachusetts is a small town located in Middlesex County, in the northeastern part of the United States. The town is situated about 26 miles northwest of Boston, the state capital. Littleton is characterized by its rural landscapes, with a mix of residential, commercial, and agricultural areas. It covers a total area of 17.6 square miles, of which 16.6 square miles is land and 1.0 square mile is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Littleton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.5373 degrees north latitude and 71.5120 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Littleton is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in New England. The town is bordered by Westford to the north, Acton to the east, Boxborough to the southeast, Harvard to the south, and Ayer and Groton to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Littleton has a population of approximately 9,924 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 42.7 years. The population is predominantly white, with smaller communities of Asian, African American, and Hispanic residents. The town is known for its strong sense of community and family-friendly environment.
🏛️ History
Littleton was first settled by English settlers in 1686 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1715. The town was named after George Lyttelton, a British statesman and patron of the arts. Littleton played a role in the early industrial history of Massachusetts, with several mills and factories operating in the town during the 19th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Littleton is home to several parks and conservation areas, offering residents and visitors numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. The town’s most notable natural feature is Long Lake, a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The Nashoba Valley Ski Area, located in Littleton, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The town is also part of the Nashua River watershed, which supports a diverse range of wildlife and plant species.
🏫 Education
Education in Littleton is managed by the Littleton Public Schools district. The district operates several schools, including Littleton High School, Littleton Middle School, and three elementary schools. The town is also home to the Nashoba Valley Technical High School, which provides vocational and technical education to students from Littleton and several surrounding towns.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Littleton is primarily by car, with Interstate 495 and Route 2 serving as the town’s main highways. The town is also served by the Littleton/Route 495 station on the MBTA Commuter Rail’s Fitchburg Line, providing direct rail service to Boston. Additionally, the town operates a local shuttle service for residents.
📜 Trivia & Events
Littleton hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Littleton Country Fair and the Littleton Road Race. The town is also known for its apple orchards, with the fall apple-picking season being a popular local tradition. In a nod to its history, Littleton’s town seal features a spinning wheel and a plow, symbols of its agricultural and industrial past.