North Attleborough, Massachusetts

North Attleborough, Massachusetts. North Attleborough, commonly referred to as North Attleboro, is a town in Bristol County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is located approximately 28 miles south of Boston and 10 miles north of Taunton. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 30,834.

History

The area that is now North Attleborough was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag tribe. In 1646, the Massachusetts Bay Colony purchased the land from the Wampanoag and established the town of Attleborough, which included present-day North Attleborough. The town was officially incorporated in 1692, and in 1709, the northern part of Attleborough was set off and incorporated as North Attleborough. The town's early economy was driven by agriculture, blacksmithing, and textile production. The Pocumtuck and Taunton River systems provided power for the town's early mills.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, North Attleborough has a total area of 18.1 square miles, of which 17.9 square miles is land and 0.2 square miles is water. The town is bordered by Attleborough to the west, Wrentham to the north, Plainville to the northeast, Foxborough to the east, and Berkley and Taunton to the south. The town's terrain is characterized by glacial features, including drumlins and eskers.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 30,834 people, 10,524 households, and 8,216 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,722.1 people per square mile. There were 10,913 housing units at an average density of 609.1 per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was 92.3% White, 2.2% African American, 0.2% Native American, 2.1% Asian, and 1.2% from two or more races.

Economy

The town's economy has diversified over the years, with major industries including healthcare, technology, and retail. Sears, Roebuck and Co. was once a major employer in the town, with a large distribution center located there. The town is also home to the North Attleborough Route 1 corridor, which is home to many businesses and shopping centers. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides commuter rail service to Boston from the Attleboro station, which is located in North Attleborough.

Government and infrastructure

The town of North Attleborough is governed by the open town meeting form of government, and is led by a town administrator and a board of selectmen. The town hall is located at 141 Main Street. The town is also served by the North Attleborough Police Department and the North Attleborough Fire Department. The Bristol County Sheriff's Department also has a presence in the town.

Education

The town of North Attleborough has a public school system that serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town is home to North Attleborough High School, North Attleborough Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also served by St. Mary's School, a private Catholic school. Bridgewater State University is located nearby, and many town residents commute to the university for higher education.

Notable people

Several notable people have lived or currently live in North Attleborough, including Chris Evans, John Krasinski, and Tommy Everett. The town is also home to several business leaders, including Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots. Senator Elizabeth Warren has also lived in the town. Governor Charlie Baker attended Dighton-Rocky Hill Regional High School (now Dighton-Rocky Hill High School) in nearby Dighton, but grew up in North Attleborough.