📍 Location & Geography
West Brookfield is a picturesque town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts. It is nestled in the southwest corner of the county, approximately 20 miles west of Worcester, the county seat. The town spans a total area of 21.7 square miles, of which 20.1 square miles is land and 1.6 square miles is water. The Quaboag River runs through the town, providing a scenic backdrop and a source of water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of West Brookfield are approximately 42°14′N latitude and 72°08′W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Brookfield is part of the New England region of the United States. It is situated in the central part of Massachusetts and is surrounded by the towns of North Brookfield to the north, East Brookfield to the east, Sturbridge and Warren to the south, and Ware and Hardwick to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the town of West Brookfield had a population of approximately 3,700 residents. The population is predominantly white, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, Asian, African American, or other races. The median age in the town is around 44 years, which is slightly higher than the state average.
🏛️ History
West Brookfield was first settled by Europeans in 1665 and was officially incorporated in 1848. It was originally part of the Quaboag Plantation, which was later renamed Brookfield. The town played a significant role in the early history of Massachusetts and was the site of several important events during the colonial period.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
The town is known for its beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills, lush forests, and serene bodies of water. It is home to the Lake Wickaboag Preservation Association, which works to protect and preserve Lake Wickaboag, one of the town’s most significant natural features. West Brookfield also has several parks and open spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching.
🏫 Education
Education in West Brookfield is managed by the Quaboag Regional School District, which serves several towns in the region. The town has one elementary school, West Brookfield Elementary School, while middle and high school students attend Quaboag Regional Middle/High School located in neighboring Warren.
🚧 Transportation
West Brookfield is easily accessible by road, with Route 9 running directly through the town. The town is also served by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, which provides public bus service to surrounding areas. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located about 25 miles east of the town.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Brookfield is the birthplace of Lucy Stone, a prominent American orator, abolitionist, and suffragist, and a vocal advocate and organizer promoting rights for women. The town also hosts the annual Asparagus Festival, which celebrates the region’s rich agricultural history and features a variety of food, music, and family-friendly activities.