📍 Location & Geography
Mattapoisett is a charming coastal town located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the western shore of Buzzards Bay and is bordered by the towns of Fairhaven to the south, Acushnet and Rochester to the west, and Marion to the north. The town encompasses a total area of 24.2 square miles, of which 17.4 square miles is land and 6.8 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts are approximately 41.66 degrees North latitude and 70.81 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Mattapoisett is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located in the southeastern part of Massachusetts, specifically in Plymouth County. The town is part of the Greater Boston area and is approximately 55 miles south of Boston, the state capital.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Mattapoisett has a population of approximately 6,500 residents. The demographic makeup of the town is predominantly white, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, African American, Asian, or other races. The median age in Mattapoisett is around 47 years, indicating a slightly older population compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Mattapoisett was originally a part of Rochester, Massachusetts. It was first settled by Europeans in 1750 and was officially incorporated as a separate town in 1857. The town’s name, “Mattapoisett”, is believed to be of Wampanoag origin, meaning “place of resting”. In the 19th century, Mattapoisett was a prominent shipbuilding center, producing many of the whaling ships that sailed from New Bedford.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Mattapoisett is known for its scenic beauty, with its coastline along Buzzards Bay offering stunning views. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Mattapoisett River Reserve and Nasketucket Bay State Reservation. The Mattapoisett Harbor, with its iconic lighthouse, is a popular spot for boating and fishing. The town is also part of the Atlantic Flyway, a major route for migratory birds.
🏫 Education
Education in Mattapoisett is served by the Old Rochester Regional School District, which also includes the towns of Marion and Rochester. The district operates an elementary school, a junior high school, and a high school. For higher education, the town is within commuting distance to several colleges and universities, including the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Mattapoisett primarily revolves around road travel, with Massachusetts Route 6 serving as the main thoroughfare through the town. The nearest airport is New Bedford Regional Airport, located about 10 miles to the west. For public transportation, the town is served by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) which provides bus service to surrounding areas.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every summer, Mattapoisett hosts the Harbor Days festival, a week-long event that features a craft fair, road race, and parade, among other activities. The event is organized by the Mattapoisett Lions Club and proceeds go towards local charities. In terms of trivia, Mattapoisett is mentioned in Herman Melville’s classic novel “Moby-Dick” as the hometown of the book’s first mate character, Starbuck.