According to topschoolsintheusa, Grafton, Massachusetts is a town located in Worcester County, about 25 miles west of Boston. The town is situated along the Blackstone River and is bordered by Millbury and Sutton to the north, Upton to the east, Northbridge to the south, and Westborough and Shrewsbury to the west.
Grafton has a total area of 25.6 square miles with 0.26 square miles of it being water. The town is divided into two distinct sections – North Grafton and South Grafton – which are separated by the Blackstone River.
The landscape in Grafton is largely composed of rolling hills with some flat areas near the riverbanks. The highest point in Grafton is located at Mt. Zion Hill which rises approximately 500 feet above sea level; while its lowest point occurs along the Blackstone River at an elevation of just under 200 feet above sea level.
The climate in Grafton is generally mild with average temperatures ranging from 20-80 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Summers are usually warm and humid while winters can be cold but rarely extreme due to its location within Massachusetts’ “snowbelt” region which receives frequent snowfall throughout winter months.
The geography of Grafton also includes several bodies of water such as Lake Ripple, Lake Warren, Mill Pond, South Pond, Whitehall Pond, and Cedar Swamp Pond among others; as well as numerous streams including Hoccomocco Brook and Tippecanoe Brook that flow through town before eventually emptying into the Blackstone River or into nearby lakes.
Grafton’s geography makes it an ideal destination for outdoor recreation such as fishing, boating, camping or hiking; making it one of Worcester County’s most popular towns.
History of Grafton, Massachusetts
Grafton, Massachusetts is a small town located in Worcester County, about 25 miles west of Boston. It was first settled in 1660 by settlers from nearby Marlborough who were looking to expand their farming operations and take advantage of the natural resources found in the area. The town was officially incorporated in 1735 and named after the Duke of Grafton, a prominent member of British royalty at the time.
In its early years, Grafton was primarily an agricultural town with many farmers growing crops such as corn and potatoes while also raising livestock including cows, pigs, chickens, and sheep. As industry began to develop throughout New England during the 19th century, Grafton saw an influx of new residents who were looking to find work in nearby factories or mills along the Blackstone River.
During this time period, Grafton also became home to several important historical sites such as the Upton Tea House which served as a popular gathering place for local revolutionaries prior to the American Revolution; as well as St. Philip’s Church which is one of the oldest churches still standing in Massachusetts today.
The 20th century saw Grafton become increasingly industrialized with many factories being built along its riverside; however, it also saw an increase in tourism due to its close proximity to both Boston and Worcester. Today, Grafton remains a popular destination for tourists due to its historical sites, outdoor recreation opportunities, and quaint downtown area that features numerous restaurants and shops.
Grafton’s rich history has helped shape it into one of Worcester County’s most vibrant towns.
Economy of Grafton, Massachusetts
Grafton, Massachusetts is a small town located in Worcester County that has a long and varied economic history. In its early years, Grafton was primarily an agricultural town with many farmers growing crops such as corn and potatoes while also raising livestock including cows, pigs, chickens, and sheep. As industry began to develop throughout New England during the 19th century, Grafton saw an influx of new residents who were looking to find work in nearby factories or mills along the Blackstone River.
Today, Grafton’s economy is still largely based on manufacturing although there are also many service-based businesses in the area. The town is home to several large companies such as Hologic Inc., a medical device manufacturer; as well as numerous smaller businesses including restaurants, shops and professional services.
Tourism is another important economic driver for Grafton due to its close proximity to both Boston and Worcester. Tourists often come to the town for its historical sites such as Upton Tea House or St. Philip’s Church; outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, boating or hiking; or just to experience its quaint downtown area which features numerous restaurants and shops.
Grafton’s economy has grown steadily over the years thanks to its diverse mix of industries that provide jobs for local residents while also helping attract visitors from all over the region.
Politics in Grafton, Massachusetts
Grafton, Massachusetts is a small town located in Worcester County that has an active and engaged political culture. The town is governed by a five-member Board of Selectmen who are elected to two-year terms. This board is responsible for making decisions regarding the budget, taxation, and other local issues affecting the town.
Grafton also has an annual Town Meeting which allows citizens to vote on important policy issues such as the budget or proposed changes to local laws. This meeting is held every spring and all registered voters in Grafton are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion.
The town also hosts a number of other political events throughout the year including candidate debates, forums, and town hall meetings where citizens can ask questions directly to their elected officials. Additionally, Grafton has several community organizations that advocate for various causes such as environmental protection or public education.
Grafton’s active political culture helps ensure that its citizens have a say in how their government operates and how it serves their needs.
