City of Taunton


The Taunton area is centrally located in Bristol County in the heart of Southeastern Massachusetts. This picturesque area encompasses the communities of Taunton, Raynham, Dighton, Berkley, and Rehoboth.

The region is known as an area of "firsts." Taunton was the first city to be founded by a women, Elizabeth Poole. It was also the first city to fly the Liberty and Union flag prior to the Revolutionary War. The area was home to the first permanent ironworks in America and industry in Greater Taunton invented the Glenwood Range, Mason locomotive, Britannia metal (now Reed & Barton Silver Company) and other well-known silver companies, Taunton is known as "The Silver City." Reed & Barton flatware has been used in the White House and the 1996 Olympic medals were designed and produced by Reed & Barton. Examples of these can be seen at the Old Colony Historical Society.

The center of Taunton is marked by the historic Taunton Green where routes 44, 138 and 140 meet. Historically, the Green was used as a training ground for Taunton's soldiers who fought in the Revolution.

The Green, with its beautiful fountain and lush flowers in the spring and summer, has been transformed each December for over 80 years into a Christmas Wonderland. Seasonal decorations, made by city students, cover the green, complete with Santa's Village, earning Taunton the nickname, "The Christmas City."

Surrounding the Green are impressive examples of Gothic and Victorian architecture including the Superior Courthouse, the downtown Post Office and other stately buildings. A self-guided walking tour of historical homes and buildings in the downtown area is available.

Shoppers will find quite a variety in the Taunton area, from small, family-owned shops to the large department stores of the Silver City Galleria and everything in between including outlets, antiques and flea markets.

The center of Southeastern Massachusetts is graced with ponds, lakes and rivers which create wonderful settings for year-round recreational activities. A state park, several golf courses, museums, a dog track and an ice-skating rink add to the menu of available fun sites.