West Boylston #21: Central MA’s Best Communities

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

GoLocalWorcester Best Communities Team

West Boylston

“Small Town, Big Heart” is the motto for this picturesque town that is nestled on the shores of the Wachusett Reservoir. The town, which celebrated its Bicentennial in 2008, was established when Ezra Beaman decided he no longer wanted to travel to Boylston to attend church.

The Old Stone Church, which sits at the edge of the Thomas Basin of the reservoir, is widely photographed, particularly in the fall.

West Boylston makes the top twenty in two categories: restaurants (#18) and education (#19). The town also scores well in affordability (#25), but ranks 50th for arts and culture.

The Wachusett Reservoir Photo courtesy of Jamie Ivins

West Boylston by the numbers

Established: 1808
Population: 7669
Median household income: $79,906
Median housing price: $198,750

2012 Best Communities rankings
Overall ranking: 21
Affordability ranking: 25
Education ranking: 19
Economic condition ranking: 36
Safety ranking: 43
Arts & Culture ranking: 50
Restaurant ranking: 18

History in a nutshell:

Throughout the 1800s, West Boylston developed industrially--specifically through textiles. With the building of the Wachusett Reservoir in order to provide Boston with water, most of the town was disrupted--both its industry and its daily proceedings. Many homes, mills and businesses were moved and the town has remained agricultural as a result of the building of the reservoir.

Famous residents:

J.P. Ricciardi, Former General Manager of the Toronto Blue Jays

Richard B Thomas, Founder of the Farmer's Almanac

Notable residents source: Wikipedia
Additional reporting by Grace Fenton