Medford

Medford is a residential town north of Boston that lies along the Mystic River and covers several neighborhoods with mixed housing styles. The streets follow a grid pattern in newer areas and wind through older sections that trace colonial routes.

The town formed in the 1630s as a farming settlement that supplied grain and livestock to nearby Boston Bay. By the 18th century the village grew through shipbuilding and brickworks along the river.

The name of this place recalls a river crossing that settlers used centuries ago. Today residents gather at farmers markets, neighborhood squares, and local coffee shops along the main avenues.

Visitors reach the residential neighborhoods by several bus lines and commuter rail stops along the edges of the town center. Walking paths connect different focal points, with some routes crossing bridges or running beside waterfront parks.

Along the riverbank stand foundations of old shipyards where sailing vessels for East Coast trade were once built. Some bridge abutments carry carved dates from the 19th century that mark earlier crossing points.

Location: Middlesex County

Inception: 1630

Elevation above the sea: 4 m

Part of: Greater Boston

Website: http://medford.org

GPS coordinates: 42.41833,-71.10667

Latest update: December 11, 2025 21:56