📍 Location & Geography
Onset is a village located in the town of Wareham, in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the western side of the Cape Cod Canal, with Buzzards Bay to the south. The village is known for its Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and the Onset Bay, which is a large body of water that extends into the village, providing a picturesque waterfront setting.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Onset, Massachusetts are approximately 41.7481° N latitude and 70.6673° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Onset is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The village covers an area of 3.1 square miles, 1.9 square miles of which is land and 1.2 square miles is water. It is surrounded by the towns of Bourne to the east and Wareham to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Onset was approximately 1,573. The village is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and age groups. The majority of the residents are Caucasian, followed by African American, Hispanic, and Asian populations. The median age of residents is around 47 years.
🏛️ History
Onset was originally a part of the town of Wareham. It was developed in the late 19th century as a spiritualist summer resort, with the first hotel being built in 1874. The village grew rapidly, attracting visitors from all over the country. In the early 20th century, Onset became known for its jazz music scene, with many famous musicians performing in the village’s music halls.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Onset is known for its beautiful natural environment, with numerous beaches, parks, and walking trails. The Onset Bay is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The village is also home to the Onset Bay Marina and the Glen Charlie Pond, which are popular recreational spots. The area is rich in wildlife, with various species of birds, fish, and mammals inhabiting the region.
🏫 Education
Education in Onset is managed by the Wareham Public Schools district. There are several schools in the vicinity, including Wareham Middle School and Wareham High School. Additionally, there are numerous private and charter schools in the surrounding area. For higher education, residents have access to several colleges and universities within driving distance, including Cape Cod Community College and Bridgewater State University.
🚧 Transportation
Onset is accessible by several major roads, including U.S. Route 6 and Interstate 495. The village is also served by the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, which provides public bus service. The nearest major airport is Logan International Airport in Boston, which is approximately 60 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Onset is known for its annual summer events, including the Onset Blues Festival, the Onset Bay Movie Nights, and the Illumination Night, where thousands of flares are lit around the bay. The village was also the filming location for the 2009 movie “The Proposal,” starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds.