Introduction to Medford, Massachusetts
Medford, Massachusetts, in Middlesex county, is 4 miles NW of Boston, Massachusetts. It's situated along the Mystic River. The city features a collection of distinct neighborhoods. West Medford is regarded as an affluent area. Medford includes a large Italian population and is known for its Italian restaurants and delis as well as excellent bakeries. The city also includes a large number of Irish-Americans. Visitors have opportunities to see numerous historic sites and houses.
Medford History
The area was formerly owned by Mathew Cradock. The city was established in 1630 as part of Charleston. During the 1840's and the 1850's large portions of the farmland was sold and replaced with commercial buildings and homes. It was incorporated as a city in 1892 and became a prominent location for manufacturing bricks, tile, clipper ships, Medford Crackers and rum.
In the late 19th century at Simpson's Tavern, local resident James Pierpont wrote the well known song "Jingle Bells." He was inspired by a sleigh race. Lydia Maria Child, another local resident wrote a poem which became the popular song "Over the River and Through the Woods."
Medford Attractions
- The Peter Tufts House is one of the oldest all-brick buildings in New England
- The Slave Wall is located on Grove Street
- The Amelia Earhart residence
- Grandfather's House is the house mentioned in the well known song "Over the River and through the Woods"
- Issac Royall House is a museum featuring numerous antiques and is a National Historic Landmark. It includes an historic slave quarters
- Salem Street Burying Ground
- Grace Episcopal Church features Gothic architecture and is included in the National Register of Historic Places
- Chevalier Theatre provides concerts and a variety of shows
- Medford City Hall features exhibits of historic items
- The Medford Historical Society owns one of the largest collections of original Civil War prints in the world
- Old Ship Street Historic District
- Old Medford High School
- Bigelow Block
- Hillside Avenue Historic District
- Park Street Railroad Station
Medford Activities
Wrights Pond provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, picnicking and hiking. The city has numerous parks which offer sports venues. The Middlesex Fells Reservation is used for hiking, bicycle riding and includes a sledding area. Nearby Boston offers a variety of activities and entertainment.
Medford Transportation
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority provides bus services. Residents have access to the area's rapid transit system.
Medford Higher Education
Medford is home to Tufts University.
