Massachusetts Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Franklin, Massachusetts

Population: 29,560

Located in Norfolk County

Originally named Exeter, the townspeople decided in 1778 to change its name to Franklin, in honor of Benjamin Franklin. The town fathers wrote Franklin and suggested he donate a church bell for the town's new meeting house. Franklin replied that he was sending a gift of books so the town might establish a library. "I consider sense more important than sound," Franklin wrote. This gave birth to the country's first public library.

Franklin has a population of approximately 29,300 and an area of 27 square miles. It combines New England traditions with a progressive attitude. Citizens have consistently favored positive action on zoning and other decisions concerning industrial growth. A fifteen member elected Town Council and an appointed Town Administrator are dedicated to serving the needs of the progressive community.

Franklin is at the virtual center of the "Golden Triangle", 28 miles from Boston, 26 miles from Providence, Rhode Island, and 26 miles from Worcester. This puts the town within easy reach of all the facilities offered by the metropolitan areas. Interstate 495 and State Route 140 virtually bisect in Franklin, providing easy access to Interstate 95 and the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Franklin offers Boston and Maine passenger service and Conrail freight service. Town MBTA commuter and public rail stations are available to residents of this town, located just 28 miles from Boston, making the daily commute a short and relatively easy one.

Like the town itself, Franklin's education system is based on sturdy tradition combined with forward looking values. Horace Mann, the father of American public education, was born in Franklin in 1796. In addition, one of the town's eight elementary schools, "The Brick School" is the oldest school in the country and has been in continuous session since 1832. "The Brick School" which houses Franklin kindergarten students has been declared a National Historic Landmark.

With its beautiful town common and historic homes, Franklin has all the charm and character of a New England community. Franklin is also the home of Dean College. From the July 4th celebration spread over 5 days to its St. Rocco's Festival and many other community activities, Franklin is a wonderful place to call home.