📍 Location & Geography
Rutland is a small town located in the heart of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in the United States. It is part of Worcester County. The town is nestled in the central part of the state and is surrounded by a number of other towns including Paxton, Holden, Princeton, and Oakham. Rutland covers a total area of approximately 36.4 square miles, of which 35.3 square miles is land and 1.1 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Rutland, Massachusetts are approximately 42.3693° N latitude and 71.9480° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Rutland is part of the New England region in the Northeastern United States. It is situated in the central part of Massachusetts, a state known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. The town is part of the Worcester County, which is the largest county in Massachusetts in terms of land area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Rutland had a population of approximately 9,200 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant portion of the population being families with children. The majority of the population is of Caucasian descent, but there are also residents of various other ethnic backgrounds, reflecting the diverse nature of the broader Massachusetts population.
🏛️ History
Rutland was first settled in 1686 as a farming community and was officially incorporated as a town in 1722. The town played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, serving as a rural outpost for soldiers and supplies. Rutland is also known for being the geographic center of Massachusetts.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Rutland is known for its beautiful natural environment, featuring a mix of rolling hills, forests, and bodies of water. The town is home to Rutland State Park, a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also includes Whitehall Pond and a portion of the Ware River. The town is committed to environmental preservation and has implemented various measures to protect its natural resources.
🏫 Education
Education in Rutland is managed by the Wachusett Regional School District, which serves several towns in the area. The town has several public schools, including Naquag Elementary School and Glenwood Elementary School, as well as Central Tree Middle School and Wachusett Regional High School. There are also private and religious schools in the area.
🚧 Transportation
Rutland is served by a number of major roads, including Massachusetts Route 122A, Route 56, and Route 68. The town is approximately 13 miles from Worcester and 52 miles from Boston, making it accessible for commuters. While there is no public transportation within Rutland, the Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides bus service to nearby towns.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Rutland hosts a number of community events, including the popular Rutland 4th of July Parade and Celebration, and the Rutland Agricultural Commission’s Fall Festival. The town is also known for being the original home of the Rutland Prison Camp, a former prison work farm, which is now a historic site.