Waltham

Waltham is a city in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, located along the Charles River about twelve kilometers west of Boston. The two universities bring thousands of young people here each autumn, and many green spaces line the riverbanks where walkers and cyclists gather.

Since the early 19th century the city grew as a center for mechanical manufacturing, especially after the opening of the first integrated textile mill in 1813. Over the decades the factories shifted from cloth to watches and later to electronics and research, so the economy constantly reinvented itself.

The name comes from Waltham Abbey in England, and many residents use the well-maintained riverside paths for commuting or short trips. On weekends, cafés and restaurants along Moody Street fill with families and students enjoying the everyday rhythm of the neighborhood.

Visitors arriving by train from Boston will find the station near the center, from where short walks or local buses reach most points of interest. Many sights and university campuses lie along the main streets, so exploring on foot gives a good sense of the city.

In the early 20th century, a local factory produced the precision timepieces for Admiral Byrd's polar exploration ship, which undertook several expeditions to Antarctica. Some of the old brick factory buildings still stand today and have been converted into apartments or offices, leaving traces of industrial history visible in the streetscape.