The town of Shrewsbury Massachusetts is a historic community of 38,000 residents in Worcester County, known for its well-maintained parks, strong school system, and proximity to major employment centers.
Shrewsbury occupies 26 square miles in Central Massachusetts, bordered by Worcester to the north, Westborough to the east, Northborough to the south, and Grafton to the west. Its terrain includes rolling hills, forests, and wetlands, with the Quabbin Reservoir watershed forming part of its western boundary.
First settled in 1660, Shrewsbury was incorporated in 1727. The town takes its name from Shrewsbury, England, through connections between early settlers and the Earl of Shrewsbury. Key historical sites include the Shrewsbury Historic District, the Old Burial Ground, and the 18th-century Bigelow House.
Shrewsbury operates under a Town Meeting form of government with a five-member Board of Selectmen. The town provides full municipal services including police, fire, public works, and health departments. Notable services include:
The town's economy blends residential living with commercial development. Major employers include:
| Employer | Industry | Employees |
|---|---|---|
| UMass Memorial Medical Center | Healthcare | 1,200 |
| Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Education | 800 |
| Shrewsbury Public Schools | Education | 500 |
Shrewsbury's tax base benefits from its location near major transportation routes including I-290, I-90, and Route 9. The town is home to several corporate headquarters and research facilities.
Annual events draw visitors from across the region:
Recreational highlights include the Mid-County Pathway, a 10-mile paved trail connecting Shrewsbury to surrounding communities, and the Lake Quinsigamond shoreline, popular for boating and fishing.