Massachusetts, which is the sixth smallest state in size, became the sixth state to join the United States of America on February 6, 1788. Massachusetts may be small, but it has quite a bit to offer. Massachusetts is famous for its historic landmarks, educational institutions, high technology industries, and the magnificent beauty of its rolling hills and seacoast. The name "Massachusetts" comes from the Massachusett Indian tribe, a tribe of the Algonquins, and means "near the great hill" or "the place of the great hill".
Massachusetts has 351 cities and towns, both large and small. Compared to Boston which is the largest city, the tiny town of Gosnold has only 58 people. Gosnold is a little island across from the popular vacation spot Martha's Vineyard.
Massachusetts has many picturesque hills and valleys. The cool winters and warm summers in Massachusetts have created small but fertile farming areas mainly in the western part of the state. Some of the best farmland lies in the river valleys where oats, dairy products, hay, vegetables, maple syrup, and fruits are grown and produced. The Commonwealth has 4,230 miles of rivers. The Connecticut River, which is one of its most important rivers, provides irrigation for a large portion of western Massachusetts. Scenic waterways such as the Charles and Merrimack Rivers are enjoyed by many for their recreational value.
The hilly terrain makes Massachusetts a great state for bicycling and hiking. Of course, that is in the nice weather. Massachusetts benefits from the change of seasons. The summer weather provides a comfortable climate for boating, swimming, camping, and other outdoor activities. As the leaves on the trees turn in autumn, Massachusetts comes alive with magnificent color. Many people enjoy the fall foliage by driving or biking through country roads. In the winter many people enjoy cross-country and downhill skiing, skating, and even ice fishing. Although spring doesn't seem to last long in Massachusetts, it is a welcome end to the seemingly long winters.
Each year thousands of tourists visit the state of Massachusetts.
Its residents are quite fortunate to have its beauty, history
and seasonal contrasts to enjoy all year long.
2. From where does the name Massachusetts come?
What does that name mean?
4. What are some outdoor activities that you enjoy? In what seasons
do you participate in the activities?
5. Name the four seasons.
6. What products are grown on the farms in Massachusetts?
7. Can you name some of the rivers in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts:
1. Massachusetts was the (a) first (b) third (c) sixth state to
join the United States.
Questions for Discussion
(c) sixth.
The Massachusett Indian Tribe.
"Near the great hill" or "the place of the
great hill".
Answers will vary.
Winter, spring, summer, and fall or autumn.
Oats, vegetables, hay, fruit...
Connecticut, Merrimack, Charles, Mystic, Nashua, Concord, Taunton,
Hoosic, Housatonic, Deerfield, Ware, Millers, Westfield, Ipswich...