📍 Location & Geography
West Chatham is a charming village located within the town of Chatham, in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. The village is situated on the southeastern tip of Cape Cod, a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches and quaint New England charm. West Chatham is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the town of Harwich to the west, and the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge to the south.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of West Chatham, Massachusetts are approximately 41.6874° N latitude and 69.9897° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Chatham is part of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, an area known for its maritime history, scenic beauty, and coastal charm. The village itself is relatively small, with a total area that is typical for Cape Cod communities.
👥 Population & Demographics
As West Chatham is a part of the town of Chatham, it shares the town’s population and demographics. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Chatham is approximately 6,125 as of 2019. The median age is 63.5 years, significantly higher than the Massachusetts state median age of 39.4 years. This is reflective of Chatham’s popularity as a retirement destination. The population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, Asian, or belonging to other racial or ethnic groups.
🏛️ History
The area now known as West Chatham was originally inhabited by the Monomoyick Native American tribe. English settlers arrived in the 1600s, and the town of Chatham was incorporated in 1712. West Chatham developed as a fishing and whaling community, like many other villages on Cape Cod. Today, it retains much of its historic charm, with many buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
West Chatham is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge to the south. The wildlife refuge is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. The village also has several beautiful beaches, including Hardings Beach and Ridgevale Beach. The area’s natural beauty is a major draw for tourists and residents alike.
🏫 Education
Education in West Chatham is managed by the Monomoy Regional School District, which serves the towns of Chatham and Harwich. The district operates several schools, including an elementary school, middle school, and high school. Additionally, Cape Cod Community College offers higher education opportunities and is located within a short drive from West Chatham.
🚧 Transportation
West Chatham is served by Route 28, which provides easy access to other parts of Cape Cod and the rest of Massachusetts. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority operates a bus service that serves West Chatham and other parts of Cape Cod. The nearest airport is the Barnstable Municipal Airport, located in Hyannis, about 20 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Chatham is home to the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, a museum dedicated to the history of maritime radio communication. The museum is located in the former Marconi-RCA Wireless Receiving Station, a National Historic Landmark. Each year, the town of Chatham hosts a number of events, including the popular Chatham First Night, a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration.