If you’ve ever lived or visited Boston, it’s probably one of your favorite places. It’s certainly one of the most unique. Ask ten people what they love about Boston and you’ll get ten different answers. One of the best places to stop by the next time you are in Boston is the town of Braintree.
Whether you’re visiting Braintree for a few days or are a localite, it’s sure to have something new for you. Braintree is located on the South Shore in Southeastern Massachusetts. It’s located along several major thoroughfares, making it convenient to Boston. Its scary-sounding name comes from Braintree in Essex, although that name’s origin is obscure.
Originally settled in 1625 and named after a English town, Braintree colonized in 1635 and incorporated in 1640. The town comprised land that was later split-off into the separate municipalities of Quincy (incorporated in 1792), Randolph (1793), and Holbrook (1872). Braintree was part of Suffolk County until the later formation of Norfolk County in 1793.
Although it is now officially known as a town, Braintree eventually adopted a municipal charter, effective 2008, with a mayor-council form of government, and is now considered an official city under Massachusetts law. Summers are typically warm to hot, rainy, and humid, while winters oscillate between periods of cold rain and snow, with cold temperatures.
Braintree’s population grew by over 50% during the 1920s and is now a popular tourist spot with many amazing available attractions like the Blue Hills Reservation, Pond Meadow Park and the United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum & The USS Salem. With so much to experience here, you can be sure to enjoy an amazing family vacation.
Not only is there much to do, but also holds plenty of American history. The town of Braintree was the birthplace of presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, as well as statesman John Hancock. General Sylvanus Thayer, the “father of West Point”, was born in the section of town now known as Braintree Highlands.