📍 Location & Geography
Roxbury is a neighborhood within Boston, located in Suffolk County, Massachusetts. It is bordered by the neighborhoods of Fenway, South End, Dorchester, South Boston, and Jamaica Plain. Roxbury covers an area of approximately 2.84 square miles, featuring a blend of urban and suburban landscapes. The neighborhood is characterized by its historic buildings, parks, and diverse residential areas.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates for Roxbury, Massachusetts are approximately 42.3152° N latitude and 71.0914° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Roxbury is part of the Greater Boston area, situated in the eastern part of Massachusetts. It is one of the 23 official neighborhoods of Boston and is part of Suffolk County. The neighborhood covers ZIP codes 02118, 02119, and 02120.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Roxbury had a population of approximately 48,454 residents. The neighborhood is known for its cultural diversity, with a significant proportion of African American, Latino, and Asian residents. The median age in Roxbury is around 31.4 years, with a fairly even gender distribution.
🏛️ History
Roxbury was founded in 1630, only a few months after the establishment of Boston. It was originally a farming community and was incorporated as a town in 1846. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Roxbury underwent significant industrial development. It was annexed to Boston in 1868 and has since been an integral part of the city. Roxbury has played a significant role in the history of Boston, particularly in the civil rights movement and the development of jazz music.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Roxbury is home to several parks and green spaces, including Franklin Park, which is considered the “crown jewel” of the Emerald Necklace Park System. The neighborhood is also home to the Roxbury Heritage State Park, a history-themed park showcasing the area’s past. Roxbury’s environment is a mix of urban development and natural beauty, with a commitment to maintaining green spaces and promoting sustainability.
🏫 Education
Roxbury is served by the Boston Public Schools system, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools within the neighborhood. It is also home to Roxbury Community College, offering a range of associate degree and certificate programs. Additionally, many students in Roxbury attend nearby universities and colleges in the Greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Roxbury is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes and subway stations operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Major roads in Roxbury include Massachusetts Avenue, Columbus Avenue, and Tremont Street. The neighborhood is also easily accessible by bike or on foot, with numerous bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets.
📜 Trivia & Events
Roxbury is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts several annual events, including the Roxbury International Film Festival, the largest New England film festival dedicated to celebrating films by, for, and about people of color. The neighborhood has also been the backdrop for several films and TV shows. Roxbury is rich in historical landmarks, including the Shirley-Eustis House, one of the few remaining royal colonial governors’ residences in the United States.