7 Bizarrely Named Towns In Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a state soaked in history, its leading role in American independence to mecca universities and quaint New England towns. Founded well back in the 1600s, much of Massachusetts' storied past is reflected in its town names. From those that sound like an entrance in a colonial village to those that are just so out of left field that one cannot imagine the reasoning behind them, there are several oddly named towns throughout the Bay State and plenty of reasons that make them worth visiting.

Braintree

This bustling suburb south of Boston got its name from a town in Essex, England. It was not always called Braintree, however, and first was known as Mount Wollaston in honor of the captain responsible for colonizing it in 1625. After the settlement changed names again to Merry Mount, settlers sought to connect with their roots, as many New England communities did, by reusing a name from a region of England the colonizers were from.

Braintree sounds like it would have been the hometown of influential thinkers, fitting as it was the birthplace of two of the most articulated presidents in American history, John Adams and John Quincy Adams. There is even a preserved space, The Adams National Historical Park, which is one of the staple attractions of the area to honor these former leaders.

Visitors can get a meal at The Braintree House of Pizza, known for its selection of sandwiches as much as its delectable pies. They shouldn't miss Braintree's South Shore Plaza, where they can find everything from high-end designer duds to everyday goods. If dining amid nature is more your desire, picnickers and outdoor enthusiasts will find solace near Sunset Lake.

Belchertown

When you head to western Massachusetts on Rte 202, you pass through Belchertown. The name could inspire a laugh, but this quaint town has much more to offer than humor. It is named after the former Royal Governor Jonathan Belcher, who held this esteemed title from 1730 to 1741. Initially, the town was known as Cold Spring in 1761, but quickly changed to Belcher's Town. Its final name change stuck, forever honoring the governor and successful businessman who helped develop this western region of Massachusetts.

History buffs will enjoy the Stone House Museum, which houses colonial-era artifacts, some dating back to before the town’s official name was cemented. You can also visit the Quabbin Reservoir, one of the most extensive man-made public water supplies in the country. Visitors can hike, fish, and enjoy the fantastic views.

One favorite in the area for a bite to eat is Antonio’s Pizza, renowned for its pies throughout Pioneer Valley. If you care more about where the food comes from and how to replicate it, the University of Massachusetts’ Cold Spring Orchard Research & Education Center is where you can pick fresh apples and learn how they grow in an orchard.

Mashpee

Many small New England towns still pay homage to the original tribes and Native Americans that first occupied the space. Such is the case with Mashpee, named from the Wampanoag word for "land near great water,” located on Cape Cod. The first place to truly appreciate the region's past is at the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum. Next, take the family to the Cape Cod Children's Museum, which provides hands-on entertainment and activities for all ages.

While it might seem like a place to smash vegetables, Mashpee is best known for its natural wonders, even extending beyond its wealth of recreation on the cape. Start with the South Cape Beach State Park for a quiet getaway of beaches and marshes. You can also hike around trails close to nature in the Mashpee River Woodlands.

Teaticket

A small village in Falmouth, Teaticket has a name as whimsical as the town itself. The origins of this name are somewhat up for debate, with some believing it stems from the Indigenous word Tataket, meaning "at the principal tidal stream." This was a title acknowledging the abundance of fishing. American Revolutionary War historians suggest the town is named Teaticket because of the tea parties held here during colonial times, and you can still tell the colonial appeal in the architecture.

Today, Teaticket maintains that wealth of American history and combines it with natural wonders to be explored. The Shining Sea Bikeway is a beautiful path that cuts through the village, a dream for avid cyclists. Not far from there, the Falmouth Ice Arena beckons those who love ice skating and hosts many other community events. With its market, Teaticket is the place to go shopping, full of fresh produce and baked goods. Finally, round off your day with some local wine tasting in an easy-going atmosphere at Cape Cod Winery.

Dogtown

Once a thriving colonial settlement, Dogtown is now a ghost town and conservation area in Gloucester. Originally called The Commons, its weird name is said to be derived initially as an homage to the pets women would keep while their husbands joined up with militias in the American Revolution. Before the town was abandoned nearly entirely in the mid-1800s, the same name was used in derision to note the growing number of wild dogs inhabiting the area as settlers moved towards the harbor.

Today, Dogtown is a haven for hikers and history buffs. It is speckled with cryptic boulder carvings, or "Babson Boulders," which include inspirational sayings. Dogtown Common Trail is an immersive path through the hauntingly beautiful woods of the area.

Just a few steps away, you can enjoy fresh seafood at The Causeway Restaurant, a local favorite. After you check the box for nature exploration, you can discover more of the region's past at the Cape Ann Museum, which is just another short drive away.

Cuttyhunk

Cuttyhunk is an isolated, quiet town that also takes its name from Native American terminology. Before colonizers settled the area, the Wampanoag tribe referred to the island as Poocutohhunkunnoh, which was believed to mean 'lands end' or perhaps 'departure point.' Finding the name challenging to pronounce, English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold shortened it to Cuttyhunk in 1602, maintaining some of the phonics from the original title.

The only way to reach the island is by ferry, but when they arrive, it is a nature lover's paradise. Anglers will enjoy excellent fishing, while nature lovers can experience kayaking off its pristine shores. The Cuttyhunk Historical Society & Museum of the Elizabeth Islands provides information on the island’s days of old. Those seeking accommodations should stay at the Cuttyhunk Fishing Club, a historic building offering a rustic ambiance with some modern comforts.

Sandwich

Sandwich is widely recognized as one of the oldest towns in the country. Its name has more to do with its original colonial ties than its food. Founded in 1637, there are several potential reasons for the community's peculiar name. The first is that it reminded the original settlers of marshes prevalent in Sandwich, Kent, England. Other historians and experts suggest this Massachusetts town was named after the old English word Sandwich, which stood for “place on the sand” or “sand village.”

The town's past is easily found when you start with landmarks like the Sandwich Glass Museum. This location celebrates its legacy as a center for glass production in the Northeastern United States with beautiful exhibits, tours, and live demonstrations. Another highlight for the curious traveler is the stunning Heritage Museums & Gardens, which feature lovely gardens and interesting exhibits on everything from classic cars to the region's art. Finish your tour of this historic community at the Dexter Grist Mill, a working 17th-century water mill showing what life was like in Colonial Sandwich.

Unveiling the Stories Behind Massachusetts' Most Unusual Town Names

Massachusetts is filled with uniquely named towns, adding character and charm to the state. Each of these seven towns says something about the bygone days, culture, and natural beauty that define the Bay State. Whether out of curiosity or the love for exploration, these cities offer experiences as memorable as their names—many of which exist because of their roots in the indigenous Native American tribes in the region or colonial American life. From the 17^th-century water mill in Sandwich to Teaticket's abounding nature and tea party ties, New England is alive and well in Massachusetts’ bizarrely named towns.