📍 Location & Geography
Sturbridge is a charming town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the central part of the state, approximately 55 miles west of Boston and 17 miles south of Worcester. Sturbridge covers a total area of 39.0 square miles, of which 37.4 square miles is land and 1.5 square miles is water. The town is characterized by a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a number of streams and ponds dotting the area.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Sturbridge, Massachusetts are approximately 42°06′27″N latitude and 72°04′59″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Sturbridge is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is located in the southern part of Worcester County and is bordered by the towns of Charlton and Southbridge to the east, Union and Woodstock to the south, Holland and Brimfield to the west, and Brookfield and East Brookfield to the north.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Sturbridge was estimated to be around 9,268. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races.
🏛️ History
Sturbridge was first settled by Europeans in 1729 and was officially incorporated in 1738. The town was named after Stourbridge, England. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Sturbridge developed as an agricultural community. The town is home to Old Sturbridge Village, the largest outdoor history museum in the Northeast, which recreates rural life in the 19th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Sturbridge is known for its beautiful natural environment, with numerous parks, forests, and bodies of water. The town is home to Wells State Park, a popular destination for camping, hiking, and fishing. Additionally, the Quinebaug River runs through the town, offering opportunities for boating and fishing.
🏫 Education
Education in Sturbridge is managed by the Tantasqua Regional School District, which includes Burgess Elementary School, Tantasqua Junior High School, and Tantasqua Regional High School. The town also has a branch of the Worcester Public Library.
🚧 Transportation
Sturbridge is served by several major highways, including Interstate 90 (the Massachusetts Turnpike), U.S. Route 20, and Massachusetts Route 131. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service to the town. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 20 miles north of Sturbridge.
📜 Trivia & Events
Sturbridge hosts a number of annual events, including the Sturbridge Harvest Festival and the Sturbridge Summer Concert Series. The town is also known for the Sturbridge Antique Show, one of the largest antique events in the region. In addition, Sturbridge is the location of the Stageloft Repertory Theater, which offers a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.