📍 Location & Geography
West Newbury is a town located in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated on the southern banks of the Merrimack River and is surrounded by other Massachusetts towns including Newbury, Groveland, and Merrimac. West Newbury’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, open fields, and a significant amount of wetlands.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of West Newbury, Massachusetts are approximately 42.7984° N latitude and 70.9617° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
West Newbury is part of the North Shore region of Massachusetts, a coastal area between Boston and New Hampshire. The town covers a total area of approximately 15.9 square miles, of which 14.7 square miles is land and 1.2 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2020 Census, West Newbury had a population of approximately 4,500 residents. The town’s population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Asian, African American, and Hispanic or Latino. The median age in West Newbury is around 45 years, which is slightly higher than the Massachusetts state average.
🏛️ History
West Newbury was first settled in 1635 as part of neighboring Newbury. In 1819, West Newbury was officially incorporated as a separate town. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the town was largely agricultural, with farms producing hay, fruits, and vegetables. In the 20th century, West Newbury transitioned from a farming community to a residential town.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
West Newbury is home to several conservation areas and parks, offering residents and visitors ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The Mill Pond Recreation Area, Riverbend Conservation Area, and Indian Hill Reservoir are popular spots for hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The town is also part of the larger Great Marsh, the largest salt marsh in New England, which provides a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.
🏫 Education
Public education in West Newbury is managed by the Pentucket Regional School District, which also serves the neighboring towns of Groveland and Merrimac. The district operates the Dr. John C. Page Elementary School, Pentucket Regional Middle School, and Pentucket Regional High School. There are no colleges or universities within the town’s limits.
🚧 Transportation
West Newbury is served by a number of state highways, including Route 113, which runs through the center of the town, and Route 95, which is accessible via nearby Newburyport. The town does not have its own public transit system or train station, but residents can access commuter rail service to Boston from the neighboring town of Newburyport. The closest major airport is Boston Logan International Airport, which is approximately 40 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
West Newbury is known for its annual Old-Fashioned Christmas Tree Lighting event, which takes place on the town common and features caroling, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa Claus. The town was also the childhood home of professional wrestler and actor John Cena.