Rutland,Massachusetts,Officially Confirmed as Geographic Center of the State
RUTLAND,MA – After decades of friendly debate,the Massachusetts Geographic Center has been officially reaffirmed as being located in Rutland.While the claim has long been widely acknowledged, recent reaffirmation solidifies the town’s position at the heart of the Commonwealth.
The geographic center of Massachusetts is marked by a modest tree on Center Tree road, a subtle landmark representing centuries of cartographic calculation. The location stems from calculations based on the state’s boundaries as they existed in the late 18th century.
The town of Rutland embraces its central identity, even engaging in a playful rivalry with Madera, California – another town claiming a geographic center title – culminating in a 2019 Super Bowl bet.Rutland officials received a gift basket of California wine after the New England Patriots’ victory over the Los Angeles Rams.
rutland’s history extends beyond its central location. The town boasts notable residents including Rufus Putnam, chief engineer to George Washington and a founding father of Ohio, whose former home on Main Street now operates as a bed and breakfast. Other prominent figures connected to Rutland include Lyman Goodnow, a conductor on the Underground Railroad; George Mangus, a former Philadelphia Phillies baseball player; and actress Patricia Stevens.
The Rutland Ancient Society, open Thursdays, preserves the town’s rich past, though it currently seeks volunteers to aid in its preservation efforts.