Introduction to Taunton, Massachusetts
Taunton, Massachusetts is 31 miles S of Boston, Massachusetts. The Taunton River flows through the city. It's located in Bristol county and is regarded as one of the oldest towns in the nation. Taunton is a primary regional location for commerce and transportation. The Myles Standish Industrial Park is one of the biggest in New England. The town is home to a Regional Forecast Office of the National Weather Service.
It features nine designated historic districts and more than one hundred buildings included in the National Register of Historic Places. Large homes built by prosperous industrialists in the late 19th century and early 20th century are still standing. The majority of homes in Taunton are simple wood framed homes with a vast number of them being more than 100 years old. Modern residential communities are primarily located on the periphery of Taunton.
Reed & Barton is a prominent manufacturer of silver products and is well known for its silverware. It's one of the oldest businesses in Taunton. The city is known as "Silver City" and "Christmas City." Semiconductor and electronics companies are significant factors for the economy.
Taunton History
The Wampanoags were the original inhabitants. The town was established by Elizabeth Pole in 1637. It was named in tribute to Taunton, Somerset England, the birth place of Elizabeth Pole and the former residence to the majority of the original settlers. Taunton is recognized as the first town in Colonial America to be established by a woman.
In the 19th century Taunton was also known as "Silver City," and featured numerous silversmith facilities. During the 19th century the town was a prominent center for iron making. At this time Taunton was also a primary shipping location for transporting grain from the region's farms to the rest of the country by way of Weir Village and the Taunton River.
Taunton Attractions
- Silver City Galleria Mall is a prominent shopping location for the region
- Taunton Green is the town's central square and features war memorial statues and numerous events and parades
- St. Mary's Church
- Bristol County Superior Courthouse is an impressive structure
- The Joseph Willis House is recognized as the oldest home in the city
- Pilgrim Congregational Church
- The downtown area features historic locations
- Old Colony Historical Society
- A large number of pre-revolutionary war era houses are located in Taunton
- The Central Fire Station is regarded as one of the oldest functioning station houses in the nation
- The Christmas celebration is a popular regional event which features the lighting of Taunton Green
Taunton Activities
Massasoit State Park is popular for a wide variety of outdoor activities. Gertrude Boyden Wildlife Sanctuary is a wooded area which features hiking trails, attractive wooden bridges, a botanical garden and is popular with bird watching enthusiasts. Hopewell Park features woodlands and includes walking paths and sports facilities. Hockomock Swamp Wildlife Management Area is popular with nature enthusiasts. Watson Pond State, Hartshorn, Memorial and Weir Village Riverfront parks are notable destinations. Residents enjoy visiting nearby Boston, Plymouth, Providence and Cape Cod. The close by Narragansett Bay Watershed is utilized for kayaking, canoeing and swimming.
Taunton Transportation
Logan International Airport is based in nearby Boston. The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority provides bus transportation.