📍 Location & Geography
Shutesbury is a charming town located in Franklin County, Massachusetts, United States. It is nestled in the scenic Pioneer Valley region of the state. The town covers a total area of 27.2 square miles, of which 26.8 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water. The town is surrounded by lush forests and is home to Lake Wyola, a popular spot for recreational activities.
🌎 Coordinates
Shutesbury is geographically located at 42°26′45″N 72°24′05″W coordinates. The town is situated at an average elevation of 656 feet above sea level.
🗺️ Region & Area
Shutesbury is part of the Pioneer Valley region in Western Massachusetts. It is bordered by the towns of Wendell to the north, New Salem to the northeast, Pelham to the southeast, Amherst to the south, and Leverett to the west. The town is approximately 90 miles west of Boston and 30 miles north of Springfield.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the town of Shutesbury had a population of approximately 1,800 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a significant portion of the population being families. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Shutesbury was first settled in 1735 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1761. The town was named after Governor Samuel Shute, a former governor of Massachusetts. Shutesbury was primarily an agricultural community in its early years, with farming being the main occupation of its residents. Over time, the town evolved and diversified, but it has managed to retain much of its historical charm and rural character.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Shutesbury is known for its beautiful natural environment. The town is home to Lake Wyola State Park, a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The town’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous streams and ponds. The town is committed to preserving its natural environment and has several conservation areas to protect its wildlife and natural habitats.
🏫 Education
Shutesbury is part of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District. The town has one elementary school, Shutesbury Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. For middle and high school, students attend schools in the nearby town of Amherst. The region is also home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including Amherst College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
🚧 Transportation
Shutesbury is primarily a car-dependent town, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for transportation. The town is served by several state routes, including Route 202. The nearest airport is Bradley International Airport, located about 50 miles south of the town. Public transportation options are limited, but the nearby city of Amherst offers bus and train services.
📜 Trivia & Events
Shutesbury is known for its annual “Celebrate Shutesbury” event, a community festival featuring local artisans, live music, food vendors, and various family-friendly activities. The town also hosts an annual WinterFest, which includes a variety of winter-themed activities and events. Shutesbury is also home to the Shutesbury Athletic Club, a historic building that serves as a community gathering place and hosts numerous events throughout the year.