📍 Location & Geography
Rowe is a small town located in Franklin County, in the state of Massachusetts, United States. The town is nestled in the northwestern part of Massachusetts, bordering Vermont. Rowe covers a total area of approximately 24 square miles, of which 0.4 square miles is water. The town is characterized by hilly terrain, with the highest point being at Todd Mountain.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Rowe are approximately 42.6937° N latitude and 72.8994° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Rowe is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is situated in the rural area of Franklin County and is surrounded by the towns of Monroe to the north, Florida to the east, Charlemont to the south, and Heath to the west. The town is approximately 100 miles west of Boston, Massachusetts.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Rowe was 393, making it one of the smallest towns in the county. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 50.6 years. The majority of the population is Caucasian, with a small percentage of other ethnicities.
🏛️ History
Rowe was first settled in 1762 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1785. The town was named after John Rowe, a prominent Boston merchant. Rowe was primarily an agricultural community, but it also had a significant role in the early industrial era with the establishment of a mill in the town. The Yankee Atomic Electric Company, one of the first nuclear power plants in the United States, was also located in Rowe.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Rowe is known for its scenic beauty and natural resources. The town is home to the Pelham Lake Park which offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The town is also the site of the Bear Swamp Hydroelectric Power Station, which is a pumped-storage hydroelectric power station.
🏫 Education
Education in Rowe is managed by the Rowe School District. The town has one elementary school, Rowe Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through 6th grade. For secondary education, students typically attend schools in the nearby towns.
🚧 Transportation
Due to its rural location, Rowe is primarily accessible by road. The main route through the town is Route 2, also known as the Mohawk Trail. The nearest airport is Albany International Airport in New York, approximately 65 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
The town of Rowe hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Rowe Town Fair, which features a parade, games, and food. Additionally, Rowe is home to the Rowe Historical Society, which maintains the Kemp-McCarthy Museum, showcasing the town’s rich history and heritage.