The Big List

  • Dudley, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Dudley is a small town located in the U.S. state of Massachusetts. It is situated in the southern part of Worcester County, along the Connecticut border. The town is surrounded by several communities, including Webster to the east, Oxford and Charlton to the north, and Southbridge to the west. Dudley covers a total area of 22.1 square miles, of which 1.9 square miles is water. The town is characterized by a mix of residential, agricultural, and commercial land uses.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Dudley, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0434° N latitude and 71.9356° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Dudley is part of the New England region of the United States, specifically located within the central part of Massachusetts. The town covers a total area of 22.1 square miles, of which 20.2 square miles is land and 1.9 square miles, or 8.58%, is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Dudley had a population of 11,390. The population density was 563.9 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was predominantly White, with a small percentage of African American, Asian, and other races. The median age was 38.2 years.

    🏛️ History

    Dudley was first settled by Europeans in 1714 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1732. The town was named after landholders Paul and William Dudley. Dudley’s history is marked by its early textile mills, powered by the Quinebaug River, which runs through the town. Over the years, Dudley has transitioned from a primarily agricultural and manufacturing community to a more residential town.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Dudley is home to several bodies of water, including Merino Pond and the Quinebaug River. The town also features numerous recreational areas such as the Dudley Conservation Land, which offers trails for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. The town is committed to preserving its natural resources and has implemented several conservation efforts to protect its environment.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Dudley is managed by the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District. The town is home to several schools, including Mason Road School, Dudley Elementary School, Dudley Middle School, and Shepherd Hill Regional High School. Dudley is also home to Nichols College, a private four-year institution known for its business and leadership programs.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in Dudley is primarily by road, with easy access to several major highways including Interstate 395 and Route 12. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles north of Dudley. Public transportation services are provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Dudley hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Dudley Grange Fair and the Dudley Do-Right Parade. The town is also known for being home to Nichols College, which hosts various academic and cultural events. In addition, Dudley is the site of the Black Tavern, a historic building dating back to 1803, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.


  • Webster, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Webster is a town located in Worcester County in the state of Massachusetts, United States. The town covers a total area of 14.5 square miles, of which 12.5 square miles is land and 2.0 square miles is water. Webster is situated in the south-central part of Massachusetts and is bordered by Dudley to the west, Oxford to the north, and Douglas to the east. The southern part of the town is bordered by Thompson, Connecticut.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Webster, Massachusetts are approximately 42.05 degrees north latitude and 71.88 degrees west longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Webster is part of the South Central region of Massachusetts, within Worcester County. The town has a total area of 14.5 square miles, making it a small to medium-sized town. It is part of the larger Worcester metropolitan area and is approximately 18 miles south of Worcester city center.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of Webster was approximately 16,893. The town has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age in Webster is around 41 years. The gender distribution is fairly even, with slightly more females than males.

    🏛️ History

    Webster was first settled in 1713 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1832. The town was named after statesman Daniel Webster. It was primarily an industrial town in its early years, with numerous mills and factories established along the local rivers. The town has since transitioned into a more residential and commercial area, while still retaining some of its industrial roots.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Webster is home to Lake Chaubunagungamaug, also known as Webster Lake, which is a major feature of the town. The lake is known for its long name, which is often cited as the longest place name in the United States. The town also has several parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The climate in Webster is characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

    🏫 Education

    Webster’s public school system is managed by the Webster Public Schools district, which operates several schools in the town, including Park Avenue Elementary, Webster Middle School, and Bartlett High School. For higher education, the nearby city of Worcester offers several colleges and universities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Webster is served by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA), which provides bus service to the town. The town is also located near several major highways, including Interstate 395 and Route 12, providing easy access to other parts of the state and region. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles north of the town.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Webster is famous for Lake Chaubunagungamaug, which has one of the longest place names in the United States. The full name of the lake is Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, which is often cited as the longest place name in the United States and one of the longest in the world. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Summerfest and the Webster Lake Association’s Winter Carnival.


  • Uxbridge, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Uxbridge is a small town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts. It is situated in the south-central part of the state, approximately 36 miles southwest of Boston. The town covers an area of 30.9 square miles, of which 0.7 square miles is water. The Blackstone River runs through the town, contributing to its rich history in the textile industry. Uxbridge is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, with a number of streams and ponds scattered throughout the town.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Uxbridge, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0772° N latitude and 71.6295° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Uxbridge is part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, an area recognized for its significant role in the Industrial Revolution. The town is part of the larger Worcester County, which is in the central part of Massachusetts. Uxbridge covers a total area of 30.9 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Uxbridge had a population of approximately 14,000 residents. 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 small percentages of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    Uxbridge was first settled in 1662 and was officially incorporated in 1727. The town played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution with its early textile mills. Uxbridge was also known for its involvement in the American Revolutionary War and the abolitionist movement. The town is home to a number of historic sites, including the Uxbridge Common Historic District and the Stanley Woolen Mill.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Uxbridge is known for its scenic beauty, with numerous parks, trails, and natural areas. The Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park is a popular destination, offering hiking, biking, and canoeing opportunities. The town is also home to Pout Pond, a popular fishing spot. Uxbridge’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its numerous conservation areas.

    🏫 Education

    Uxbridge is served by the Uxbridge Public Schools district, which includes an elementary school, a middle school, and a high school. The town is also home to the private school, Our Lady of the Valley Regional School. For higher education, residents have access to a number of colleges and universities in the nearby Worcester and Boston areas.

    🚧 Transportation

    Uxbridge is accessible by several major highways, including Massachusetts Route 16 and Route 146. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service in the area. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 25 miles north of Uxbridge. The town also has several biking and walking trails, providing alternative modes of transportation.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Uxbridge hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Summerfest and the Christmas Parade. The town is also known for its historical reenactments, particularly those related to the American Revolutionary War. Trivia-wise, Uxbridge is known as the birthplace of the U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps, and it was the site of America’s first woman voter, Lydia Taft, in 1756.


  • Upton, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Upton is a charming town located in Worcester County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. The town covers a total area of 21.7 square miles, of which 0.1 square miles is water. Upton is primarily a suburban town with a mix of residential, commercial, and undeveloped land.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Upton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.1751° N latitude and 71.6034° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Upton is situated in the eastern part of Worcester County. It is bordered by the towns of Hopkinton to the east, Milford to the south, Grafton to the west, and Westborough to the north. The town is part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, a region that has a rich industrial history.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Upton has a population of approximately 7,860 residents. The town has a diverse age group with a median age of 42.5 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of Asian, African American, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    Upton was first settled in 1728 and was officially incorporated in 1735. The town was originally part of the neighboring town of Mendon before becoming its own entity. Upton has a rich history of agriculture, with many farms and orchards dotting the landscape. Over time, the town evolved into a more suburban community, but it still retains much of its historical charm.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Upton is home to several parks and nature reserves. The Upton State Forest is a popular destination for hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The town also has several bodies of water, including Pratt Pond and Wildwood Lake, which offer opportunities for fishing and boating. Upton is committed to preserving its natural resources and has implemented several conservation initiatives.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Upton is managed by the Mendon-Upton Regional School District. The town has one elementary school, Memorial Elementary School, and shares a middle school and high school with the neighboring town of Mendon. The district is known for its high academic standards and commitment to student success.

    🚧 Transportation

    Upton is served by several major roads, including Massachusetts Route 140 and Route 135. The town is also within close proximity to Interstate 495, providing easy access to other parts of the state. Public transportation in Upton is provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, which operates bus routes in the area.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Upton is home to the annual Upton Bloomer Girls Carnival, a community event that features games, food, and entertainment. The town also hosts the Upton Men’s Club Christmas Tree Sale, a beloved holiday tradition. One unique aspect of Upton is its “Knowlton Risteen” structure, a historical building that was once a hat factory and now serves as a museum showcasing the town’s rich history.


  • Sturbridge, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Sturbridge is a charming town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the central part of the state, approximately 55 miles west of Boston and 17 miles south of Worcester. Sturbridge covers a total area of 39.0 square miles, of which 37.4 square miles is land and 1.5 square miles is water. The town is characterized by a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a number of streams and ponds dotting the area.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Sturbridge, Massachusetts are approximately 42°06′27″N latitude and 72°04′59″W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Sturbridge is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located in the southern part of Worcester County and is bordered by the towns of Charlton and Southbridge to the east, Union and Woodstock to the south, Holland and Brimfield to the west, and Brookfield and East Brookfield to the north.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of Sturbridge was estimated to be around 9,268. 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 African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    Sturbridge was first settled by Europeans in 1729 and was officially incorporated in 1738. The town was named after Stourbridge, England. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Sturbridge developed as an agricultural community. The town is home to Old Sturbridge Village, the largest outdoor history museum in the Northeast, which recreates rural life in the 19th century.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Sturbridge is known for its beautiful natural environment, with numerous parks, forests, and bodies of water. The town is home to Wells State Park, a popular destination for camping, hiking, and fishing. Additionally, the Quinebaug River runs through the town, offering opportunities for boating and fishing.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Sturbridge is managed by the Tantasqua Regional School District, which includes Burgess Elementary School, Tantasqua Junior High School, and Tantasqua Regional High School. The town also has a branch of the Worcester Public Library.

    🚧 Transportation

    Sturbridge is served by several major highways, including Interstate 90 (the Massachusetts Turnpike), U.S. Route 20, and Massachusetts Route 131. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service to the town. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 20 miles north of Sturbridge.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Sturbridge hosts a number of annual events, including the Sturbridge Harvest Festival and the Sturbridge Summer Concert Series. The town is also known for the Sturbridge Antique Show, one of the largest antique events in the region. In addition, Sturbridge is the location of the Stageloft Repertory Theater, which offers a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.