📍 Location & Geography
Woods Hole is a charming seaside village located in the town of Falmouth, in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It is situated on the southwestern tip of Cape Cod, a peninsula in the northeastern United States. The village is surrounded by water and is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Eel Pond, a small inlet of the harbor, and the Nobska Point Lighthouse.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Woods Hole are approximately 41.5265° N latitude and 70.6736° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Woods Hole is part of the Cape Cod region, an area known for its beaches, lighthouses, and historic sites. The village itself covers a relatively small area, with a land area of just 3.9 square miles. It is bordered by the Vineyard Sound to the south, Buzzards Bay to the west, and the town of Falmouth to the north and east.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the last census, the population of Woods Hole was approximately 781. The village has a diverse demographic, with a mix of families, retirees, and students. The median age is around 57 years, which is higher than the Massachusetts average. The population tends to fluctuate seasonally, with an influx of visitors and seasonal residents during the summer months.
🏛️ History
Woods Hole was originally settled by Europeans in the 17th century and was named after the Woods family, early settlers in the area. The village’s location made it a significant maritime center, and it was known for its shipbuilding and whaling industries. In the late 19th century, Woods Hole began to develop as a center for oceanographic research, a reputation it maintains to this day.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Woods Hole is known for its beautiful natural environment, including several beaches, hiking trails, and marine ecosystems. The village is home to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, which conducts research on marine life and ecosystems. The area’s natural beauty and biodiversity make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
🏫 Education
Woods Hole is home to several world-renowned educational and research institutions. These include the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the Marine Biological Laboratory, and the Woods Hole Research Center. The village is also served by the Falmouth Public Schools system, which includes a number of elementary, middle, and high schools.
🚧 Transportation
Woods Hole is accessible by road, sea, and air. The village is served by Route 28, which provides access to other parts of Cape Cod and the mainland. The Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket Steamship Authority operates ferry services from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. The nearest airport is the Barnstable Municipal Airport, located about 20 miles north of the village.
📜 Trivia & Events
Woods Hole is known for its annual events, including the Woods Hole Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world. The village is also the starting point for the Falmouth Road Race, a popular 7-mile race that attracts runners from across the country. Trivia fans might be interested to know that the Alvin, a deep-sea submersible that explored the wreck of the Titanic, was developed and is maintained at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.