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Norfolk County, Massachusetts

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Article Genealogy
Parent: Middlesex County, Massachusetts Hop 3
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Norfolk County, Massachusetts
CountyNorfolk County
StateMassachusetts
Founded1793
SeatDedham
Largest cityQuincy
Area total sq mi444
Area land sq mi396
Area water sq mi48
Population total725,981
Population as of2020
Population density sq mi1833.3
Time zoneEastern
Named forNorfolk
District2nd
District23rd
District34th
District47th
District58th
District69th

Norfolk County, Massachusetts is a county located in the U.S. state of Massachusetts. As of the 2020 United States Census, it had a population of 725,981, making it the fourth-most populous county in the state. The county seat is Dedham, while its largest city is Quincy. Norfolk County is part of the Greater Boston metropolitan area and is known for its affluent suburbs, historic towns, and significant economic contributions.

History

The area was originally inhabited by the Massachusett people before European settlement. Norfolk County was created in 1793 from parts of Suffolk County, with its early governance centered in Dedham. The county played a role in the American Revolution, with events like the Battle of Bunker Hill involving soldiers from its towns. In the 19th century, it became a center for the Industrial Revolution, with industries flourishing in towns like Quincy and Stoughton. Notable historical figures from the county include John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and John F. Kennedy.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 444 square miles, of which 396 square miles is land and 48 square miles is water. It is bordered by Suffolk County to the north, Middlesex County to the west, Bristol County and Plymouth County to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The geography features the Blue Hills Reservation, the Neponset River, and parts of the Boston Harbor Islands. Major bodies of water include Lake Massapoag and the Charles River.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 725,981 people residing in the county. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with significant populations of Asian, Black, and Hispanic or Latino residents. The median household income is among the highest in Massachusetts, with towns like Dover and Wellesley ranking notably affluent. Educational attainment is high, with a large percentage of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The population is concentrated in urban centers like Quincy and Brookline.

Government

Norfolk County operates under a county commission form of government, with administrative functions largely decentralized to its constituent cities and towns. The county is part of several Massachusetts Senate and Massachusetts House of Representatives districts. It is represented in the United States House of Representatives by members from the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 7th, 8th, and 9th congressional districts. The Norfolk County Courthouse in Dedham houses key judicial functions, including the Norfolk County Superior Court.

Economy

The county has a diverse and robust economy, with major sectors including healthcare, education, finance, and technology. It is home to corporate headquarters like State Street Corporation and Boston Scientific, as well as prestigious institutions such as the Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. The University of Massachusetts Boston and Babson College contribute to an innovation-driven environment. Retail and commercial centers thrive in areas like Legacy Place in Dedham and the South Shore Plaza in Braintree. The Quincy waterfront has seen significant redevelopment, boosting the local economy.

Education

The county is served by numerous high-performing public school districts, including those in Wellesley, Brookline, and Sharon. It is also home to several prestigious private institutions like Milton Academy, Noble and Greenough School, and the Dana Hall School. Higher education is anchored by Babson College in Wellesley, Regis College in Weston, and Curry College in Milton. The Massachusetts Bay Community College has campuses in Wellesley and other towns, providing vocational and associate degree programs.

Transportation

Major highways serving the county include Interstate 93, Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, and Massachusetts Route 128. Public transportation is provided by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, with key commuter rail lines like the Providence/Stoughton Line, Franklin Line, and Needham Line. The Red Line rapid transit serves Quincy and Braintree, while the Green Line extends into Brookline. Logan International Airport in nearby Boston is the primary air travel hub, and the Norfolk County Airport in Norwood supports general aviation.

Category:Norfolk County, Massachusetts Category:Counties in Massachusetts Category:1793 establishments in Massachusetts