Westborough, Massachusetts

Westborough, Massachusetts
Name	Westborough, Massachusetts
Settlement type	Town
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Massachusetts
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Worcester
Established title	Settled
Established date	1675
Established title2	Incorporated
Established date2	1717

Westborough, Massachusetts. Westborough is a historic New England town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. Situated within the MetroWest region, it is known for its blend of residential communities, corporate offices, and preserved natural spaces like the Lake Chauncy and Sandra Pond. The town has evolved from its agricultural and industrial roots into a significant suburban hub with strong ties to the Massachusetts Turnpike and the Boston metropolitan area.

History

The area was originally part of the Praying Indian village of Hassanamisco and was later settled by colonists from Sudbury in 1675. It was officially incorporated as a town in 1717, named after the Earl of Westmorland. Early industries included sawmills, gristmills, and a notable shoe manufacturing sector. The arrival of the Boston and Albany Railroad in the 19th century spurred further growth. Westborough was the site of the Eli Whitney gun factory during the War of 1812 and later became a center for the production of telephone equipment under the Western Electric company. The Westborough State Hospital, opened in 1884, was a significant institution for decades. The town's historical society maintains several properties, including the Nathan Fisher House and the Westborough Center for History and Culture.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 21.6 square miles, of which 20.0 square miles is land and 1.6 square miles is water. Major bodies of water include Lake Chauncy, Sandra Pond, and the Chickatawbut Brook. The town is bisected by the Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90) and is also served by Interstate 495 and U.S. Route 9. It borders the towns of Northborough, Southborough, Hopkinton, Grafton, Shrewsbury, and the city of Marlborough. Notable natural areas include the Headwaters Conservation Area and the Bowditch Field.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 21,567. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with growing Asian and Hispanic communities. The median household income is significantly above the state average, reflecting the town's affluent suburban character. Educational attainment is high, with a large percentage of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Population density is moderate, with a mix of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and condominiums.

Economy

Westborough's economy is diverse, with a strong presence in the technology, biotechnology, and healthcare sectors. Major corporate campuses and offices include those of Boston Scientific, Quest Diagnostics, and Cisco Systems. The Westborough Office Park and the Computerworld headquarters have been notable fixtures. The town is part of the Route 9 and Interstate 495 high-tech corridors. Retail and service industries are centered around the Westborough Shopping Center and the Bay State Commons development. Historically, the Telechron clock company and the New England Pressed Steel company were major employers.

Government and infrastructure

Westborough operates under the Open town meeting form of government, led by a Board of Selectmen and a professional Town Manager. The town's public safety services are provided by the Westborough Police Department and the Westborough Fire Department. Key infrastructure includes the Westborough Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Westborough Public Library. The town is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's Framingham/Worcester Line commuter rail at the Westborough station. The Westborough State Hospital site has undergone significant redevelopment.

Education

The Westborough Public Schools district operates several schools, including the Westborough High School, Gibbons Middle School, and multiple elementary schools such as the Annie E. Fales Elementary School. The district is known for high academic performance and extensive extracurricular programs. The town is also home to the Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School and is near several private institutions like the Fay School and the Saint John's High School. The Westborough Public Library serves as a central community and educational resource.

Notable people

Notable individuals associated with Westborough include inventor Eli Whitney, who manufactured muskets here; Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, who taught in the town; John H. Chafee, former United States Senator and Governor of Rhode Island; John H. M. Laslett, prominent United States Marine Corps officer; and Mike Sherman, former head coach of the Green Bay Packers. Contemporary figures include Nate Freiman, former Major League Baseball player, and Megan Khang, professional golfer on the LPGA Tour.

Category:Towns in Massachusetts Category:Towns in Worcester County, Massachusetts Category:Populated places established in 1717