📍 Location & Geography
Millers Falls is a small, unincorporated community located in the town of Montague in Franklin County, Massachusetts. It is situated in the northern part of the state, near the Connecticut River. The community is named after the waterfall in the village on the Sawmill River, a tributary of the Connecticut River. The geography of Millers Falls is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and waterways.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Millers Falls, Massachusetts are approximately 42.5764° N latitude and 72.4924° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Millers Falls is part of the Pioneer Valley region of Massachusetts, which is known for its rich agricultural history and vibrant arts scene. The community is nestled in the western part of Franklin County, which is the most rural county in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The area of Millers Falls is relatively small, reflecting its status as a village within the larger town of Montague.
👥 Population & Demographics
As an unincorporated community, Millers Falls doesn’t have its own separate population count. However, the town of Montague, which Millers Falls is part of, has a population of around 8,500 people according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The demographics of the area are largely Caucasian, with a significant number of residents of Irish and Polish descent.
🏛️ History
Millers Falls was established in the 19th century as an industrial village. It was originally known as Grout’s Corner, named after the area’s first settler Martin Grout. The community saw significant growth with the arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s. The Millers Falls Company, a major producer of hand tools, was established here in 1868 and was a significant employer in the area for many years.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
The nature and environment of Millers Falls are one of its key attractions. The community is surrounded by lush forests and is home to several parks and nature reserves. The Connecticut River and the Sawmill River offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird watching. The waterfall that gives the village its name is a popular natural feature.
🏫 Education
Education in Millers Falls is provided by the Gill-Montague Regional School District, which serves the surrounding area. The district operates several elementary schools, a middle school, and Turners Falls High School. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities within a short drive, including the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Greenfield Community College.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Millers Falls is primarily by road, with Massachusetts Route 2, also known as the Mohawk Trail, passing through the community. The FRTA (Franklin Regional Transit Authority) provides public bus service in the area. The nearest airport is Bradley International Airport, located about an hour’s drive south in Connecticut.
📜 Trivia & Events
Millers Falls is home to the annual Millers Falls Rod and Gun Club Fishing Derby, a popular event that attracts anglers from around the region. The community also hosts a variety of local events throughout the year, including holiday parades and farmers markets. In terms of trivia, Millers Falls was the filming location for some scenes in the 1999 movie “In Dreams,” starring Annette Bening and Robert Downey Jr.