📍 Location & Geography
Mashpee is a town located in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the south shore of Cape Cod, bordered by Sandwich to the northwest, Barnstable to the northeast, Nantucket Sound to the south, and Falmouth to the west. The town encompasses a total area of 27.2 square miles, of which 23.4 square miles is land and 3.8 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Mashpee, Massachusetts are approximately 41.6484° N latitude and 70.4817° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Mashpee is part of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and quaint New England towns. The town is part of the Barnstable County, which is the second largest county in Massachusetts. Mashpee covers an area of approximately 27.2 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Mashpee was approximately 14,006. The town’s population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and age groups. The median age in Mashpee is around 50 years. The town is also home to the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, one of two federally recognized tribes of Wampanoag people in Massachusetts.
🏛️ History
Mashpee was first settled by English colonists in 1658. The town was named after the native Mashpee tribe, a part of the larger Wampanoag Confederacy. Mashpee was officially incorporated in 1870. Historically, the town’s economy was based on agriculture and fishing, but in the 20th century, it shifted towards tourism and services.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Mashpee is known for its beautiful natural environment, with several beaches, forests, and wildlife preserves. The town is home to the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area that provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. The town also features several freshwater ponds and the Mashpee River, which flows into Popponesset Bay.
🏫 Education
Education in Mashpee is managed by the Mashpee School District, which operates several schools in the town, including Mashpee High School, Mashpee Middle School, and two elementary schools. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Cape Cod Community College.
🚧 Transportation
Mashpee is served by a number of major roads, including Massachusetts Route 28 and Massachusetts Route 151. The town is also serviced by the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, which provides public transportation throughout the Cape Cod region. The nearest airport is Barnstable Municipal Airport, located in Hyannis.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Mashpee hosts the Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow, a cultural event that celebrates the heritage of the local Wampanoag tribe with traditional music, dance, and food. The town is also home to the Mashpee Commons, a large outdoor shopping center that features a mix of national chain stores and local boutiques.