📍 Location & Geography
Middleton is a small town located in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 20 miles north of Boston. Middleton covers an area of 14.4 square miles, of which 13.9 square miles is land and 0.5 square miles is water. The town is bordered by North Andover to the north, Boxford to the northeast, Topsfield to the east, Danvers to the south, and Peabody to the southwest.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Middleton are 42°35′48″N 71°0′56″W. It is located in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).
🗺️ Region & Area
Middleton is part of the North Shore region of Massachusetts, an area known for its historic sites, scenic beauty, and seafood cuisine. The town is part of the Greater Boston area, a region with significant economic and cultural influence.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Middleton was approximately 9,400. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of the population being African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino.
🏛️ History
Middleton was first settled in 1659 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1728. The town was named after Sir Thomas Middleton, an English colonial administrator. Throughout its history, Middleton has been a primarily agricultural community, with farming playing a significant role in its economy.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Middleton is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Harold Parker State Forest and the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. These areas offer a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The town is also known for its beautiful landscapes, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and numerous bodies of water.
🏫 Education
Education in Middleton is managed by the Tri-Town School Union, which also serves the neighboring towns of Boxford and Topsfield. The town has one elementary school, the Fuller Meadow School, and shares the Masconomet Regional Middle School and Masconomet Regional High School with Boxford and Topsfield.
🚧 Transportation
Middleton is served by several major roads, including Interstate 95 and Route 114. Public transportation is provided by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, which operates bus services in the area. The nearest train station is located in neighboring North Andover, providing access to Boston and other parts of the state.
📜 Trivia & Events
Middleton is home to the annual Middleton Stream Team’s Earth Day Cleanup, a community event that promotes environmental awareness and conservation. The town is also known for the Angelica’s Restaurant and Functions, a popular venue for weddings and other special events. Additionally, Middleton is home to the Richardson’s Dairy, a family-owned business that has been operating since 1695 and is famous for its homemade ice cream.