Colrain is a town located in Franklin County, Massachusetts, United States. It was first settled in 1735 and officially incorporated in 1761. The town was named after a town in northern Ireland, as many of the early settlers were of Scotch-Irish descent. Colrain has a rich history of agriculture, with farming being a prominent industry in the area for many years. The town also played a role in the abolitionist movement, with several residents actively participating in the Underground Railroad.
Colrain has been home to several notable individuals, including author and environmentalist Bill McKibben, who has written extensively on climate change and the environment.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Colrain was 1,671 in 2020. The town has a small, close-knit community with a strong sense of history and tradition.
Colrain is located in western Massachusetts, near the Vermont border. The town is known for its rural landscape, with forests, farms, and rivers dotting the area. The Deerfield River runs through the town, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Agriculture has historically been a major industry in Colrain, with dairy farming, maple sugaring, and apple orchards being common in the area. The town also has a small retail sector, with shops and restaurants catering to both locals and tourists.
Colrain has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on traditional crafts and music. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from folk music to maple syrup production. Residents of Colrain are known for their friendliness and community spirit.