Wakefield, Colonial town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts
Wakefield is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, centered around Lake Quannapowitt, a 254-acre water body that forms the headwaters of the Saugus River. The lake serves as a focal point for both residential living and outdoor activities throughout the year.
The settlement began as Lynn Village in 1638 and underwent several name changes before becoming Wakefield in 1868, taking its name from industrialist Cyrus Wakefield. These changes reflected the town's evolving role in the region over more than two centuries.
The town hosts year-round gatherings such as the Town Day Festival by the lake, an Independence Day parade, and Festival Italia that bring residents together. These events shape how people experience community life and local traditions here.
Two MBTA commuter rail stations and several bus routes link the town to Boston, while direct access to Interstate 95 enables easy regional travel. These transport connections make it straightforward to explore the area and venture to surrounding communities.
The Wakefield Rattan Company, founded in 1856, became one of North America's largest rattan furniture manufacturers by the 19th century. This industrial achievement significantly shaped the town's economic identity and prosperity for decades.
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