📍 Location & Geography
Orange is a town located in Franklin County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 90 miles west of Boston. The town is nestled in the valley of the Millers River, a tributary of the Connecticut River. The terrain of Orange is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and water bodies, including Tully Lake and Lake Mattawa.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Orange, Massachusetts are approximately 42.5929° N latitude and 72.3046° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Orange is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of approximately 36 square miles (93.2 km²), of which 35.2 square miles (91.2 km²) is land and 0.8 square miles (2 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Orange has a population of approximately 7,839 residents. The town’s population is predominantly white, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, African American, Asian, or other races. The median age in Orange is around 44 years.
🏛️ History
Orange was first settled in 1746 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1810. It was named in honor of William, Prince of Orange. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Orange was a thriving industrial town with several manufacturing industries, including the New Home Sewing Machine Company. The town’s rich industrial history is preserved in several historic sites and buildings.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Orange is home to a variety of natural attractions. The town is surrounded by state forests and conservation areas, including the Orange State Forest and the Tully Lake Recreation Area. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. The Millers River and its tributaries provide habitats for various wildlife species.
🏫 Education
Education in Orange is managed by the Ralph C. Mahar Regional School District. The town has several public schools, including Fisher Hill Elementary School, Dexter Park Innovation School, and Ralph C. Mahar Regional High School. Orange also has a public library, the Wheeler Memorial Library.
🚧 Transportation
Orange is served by several major roads, including Route 2, also known as the Mohawk Trail, and Route 202. The town also has a local bus service operated by the Franklin Regional Transit Authority. The Orange Municipal Airport provides general aviation services.
📜 Trivia & Events
Orange is known for its annual Orange Harvest Festival, a community event featuring local food, crafts, and entertainment. The town is also home to the Orange Historical Society, which hosts exhibits and events related to the town’s history. One interesting piece of trivia is that Orange was the first town in the world to be created by a “plan on paper”. The plan was drawn up in 1734, and the town was built according to this plan.