📍 Location & Geography
Shrewsbury is a town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, and is bordered by the towns of Northborough to the north, Westborough to the west, Grafton to the south, and the city of Worcester to the east. Shrewsbury is characterized by its rolling hills, numerous bodies of water including Lake Quinsigamond, and a mix of suburban and rural landscapes.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts are approximately 42.2959° N latitude and 71.7128° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Shrewsbury is part of the New England region of the United States. It covers a total area of approximately 21.6 square miles (56 km2), of which 20.7 square miles is land and 0.9 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Shrewsbury was approximately 37,973. The town has a diverse population, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age of residents is around 42 years. The town is also known for its high rate of home ownership, with the majority of residents owning their homes.
🏛️ History
Shrewsbury was first settled in 1722 and officially incorporated as a town in 1727. It was named after Shrewsbury, England. The town played a role in the American Revolutionary War and was a center for the abolitionist movement in the 19th century. Shrewsbury’s growth was spurred by the development of the Worcester and Boston Turnpike, which later became Route 9, and its location along Lake Quinsigamond where summer resorts were established.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Shrewsbury is known for its natural beauty, with several parks, trails, and bodies of water. The town is home to Lake Quinsigamond, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Dean Park, a major recreational area, features tennis courts, baseball fields, and a large pond. The town also has a number of smaller parks and conservation lands.
🏫 Education
Shrewsbury Public Schools oversees the town’s education system, which includes several elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school – Shrewsbury High School. The town is also home to Saint John’s High School, a private, boys’ Catholic school. Shrewsbury has a strong commitment to education, with a high graduation rate and many students going on to attend college.
🚧 Transportation
Shrewsbury is served by several major highways, including Route 9, Route 20, and Interstate 290. The town is also located near the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), providing easy access to Boston and other major cities. Public transportation is provided by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, with several bus routes passing through the town. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 10 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Shrewsbury hosts several annual events, including the Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival, which features a parade, craft fair, and other activities. The town is also known for its historic sites, such as the Artemas Ward House, the birthplace and lifelong home of Artemas Ward, the first Commander-in-Chief of the American Revolutionary War. The house is now a museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.