📍 Location & Geography
Oxford, Massachusetts is a town located in Worcester County in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in central Massachusetts, approximately 11 miles south of the city of Worcester. The town covers a total area of 27.5 square miles, of which 26.6 square miles is land and 0.9 square miles is water. The French River runs through the town, which also includes several ponds and lakes.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Oxford, Massachusetts are approximately 42.1168° N latitude and 71.8648° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Oxford is part of the New England region of the United States. It is located in the southern part of Worcester County, which is the second largest county in Massachusetts. The town is surrounded by several other towns, including Auburn to the north, Webster to the south, and Charlton to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Oxford was approximately 13,709. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 40.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a significant percentage of the population being of Polish descent.
🏛️ History
Oxford was first settled by Europeans in 1686 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1713. It was originally a farming community, but with the advent of the Industrial Revolution, it transitioned into a mill town, with several textile mills operating along the French River. The town is also known for being the birthplace of Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Oxford boasts a variety of natural features, including several bodies of water such as Carbuncle Pond and McKinstry Pond. The French River also provides a scenic backdrop for the town. The town is home to several parks and recreation areas, including Greenbriar Park and Buffumville Lake, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating.
🏫 Education
Education in Oxford is managed by the Oxford Public Schools district, which operates several schools in the town, including Oxford High School, Oxford Middle School, and two elementary schools. In addition, the town is home to the Clara Barton Center for Diabetes Education, a camp and education center named after the town’s most famous resident.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Oxford is primarily by road, with several major highways, including Interstate 395 and Route 20, passing through the town. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service to the area. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 12 miles north of the town.
📜 Trivia & Events
Oxford hosts several community events throughout the year, including an annual summer concert series and a holiday tree lighting ceremony. The town is also home to the Oxford Historical Society, which maintains a museum in the town’s old town hall building. One interesting fact about Oxford is that it was the site of the first green card lottery in the United States, held in 1990.