📍 Location & Geography
Westport is a town located in the southeastern part of the state of Massachusetts, in the United States. It is part of Bristol County and is situated along the western shore of Buzzards Bay. The town is bordered by Dartmouth to the north, New Bedford to the northeast, Buzzards Bay to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and Little Compton, Rhode Island to the west. The town covers a total area of 64.4 square miles, of which 50.1 square miles is land and 14.3 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Westport, Massachusetts are approximately 41.5798° N latitude and 71.0960° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Westport is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is located in the southern part of Bristol County in Massachusetts. The town is divided into several villages and locales, including Westport Point, Central Village, North Westport, and Acoaxet, among others.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of Westport is approximately 16,500. The town has a predominantly white population, with minorities including African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics. The median age in Westport is around 48 years, and the town has a slightly higher female population compared to males.
🏛️ History
Westport was first settled in 1670 as a part of the town of Dartmouth by members of the Plymouth Colony. It was officially incorporated as a separate town in 1787. The town was primarily agricultural in its early years, with fishing and manufacturing also playing significant roles in its economy. Westport’s location along the coast made it a popular summer resort area in the 19th and 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Westport is known for its scenic beauty, with a mix of coastal and rural landscapes. The town is home to several beaches, including Horseneck Beach State Reservation, which is a popular destination for swimming, camping, and bird watching. The Westport River, which flows through the town, is another significant natural feature, providing opportunities for boating and fishing.
🏫 Education
The Westport Community Schools system serves the educational needs of the town. It includes the Alice A. Macomber Primary School, Westport Elementary School, and Westport Junior/Senior High School. For higher education, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is located nearby.
🚧 Transportation
Westport is served by several major roads, including Interstate 195, which provides access to Providence, Rhode Island to the west and New Bedford to the east. The town does not have its own public transit system, but it is served by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority, which provides bus service to surrounding communities. The nearest airport is New Bedford Regional Airport, located about 10 miles northeast of Westport.
📜 Trivia & Events
Westport is known for its annual Westport Fair, which features agricultural exhibits, live music, and a variety of food vendors. The town is also home to the Westport Rivers Vineyard and Winery, which is one of the largest vineyards in New England. In addition, Westport has a rich history of shipbuilding, with the Westport Point Historic District showcasing many buildings dating back to this era.