📍 Location & Geography
Sharon is a town located in Norfolk County in the state of Massachusetts, United States. It is situated about 22 miles south of Boston and 27 miles north of Providence, Rhode Island. The town covers a total area of 24.2 square miles, of which 23.3 square miles is land and 0.9 square miles is water. Sharon is characterized by a mix of suburban living, wooded areas, and several small bodies of water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Sharon, Massachusetts are approximately 42.1237° N latitude and 71.1787° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Sharon is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the most populous region in New England. The town is bordered by Canton to the north, Stoughton and Easton to the east, Foxborough to the south, and Walpole to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Sharon was approximately 18,624. The town has a diverse population, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age of residents is around 42 years.
🏛️ History
Sharon was first settled by Europeans in 1637 and was officially incorporated in 1765. The town was originally a part of the Neponset Purchase and was used as a hunting ground by Native Americans as the area was filled with wild game and fish. It was named Sharon after the Plain of Sharon, near Tel Aviv in Israel. The town has a rich history with several historical landmarks and sites.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Sharon is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is home to several parks and conservation lands, including the Mass Audubon’s Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary and Borderland State Park. Lake Massapoag, a significant body of water in Sharon, is renowned for its beauty and recreational opportunities. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its numerous green spaces.
🏫 Education
Sharon Public Schools is the local school district serving the town, which includes an elementary, middle, and high school. The Sharon High School is consistently ranked among the top schools in the state. For higher education, the town is within commuting distance to several universities and colleges in Boston and Providence.
🚧 Transportation
Sharon is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) which provides commuter rail service from Sharon station to Boston’s South Station. The town is also close to major highways, including Interstate 95 and Route 1, providing easy access to Boston and Providence.
📜 Trivia & Events
Sharon has been recognized as one of the best places to live in America by CNN Money Magazine several times. The town hosts several events throughout the year, including the Sharon Classic Road Race and the annual Independence Day Celebration at Lake Massapoag. Sharon also has a rich cultural scene with the Sharon Community Chorus and the Sharon Community Band.