Lakeville is an inland rural town on the border of Plymouth and Bristol Counties in southeast Massachusetts. Lakeville's first settlers arrived in 1702 and began operating a forge to make use of the bog iron in Assawompset and Long Ponds. These bodies and others are what give the town much of its identity; Lakeville received its name from the chain of broad and beautiful lakes which occupy approximately 4,000 acres of the township. Lakeville, later part of Middleborough, then split away and was incorporated as an independent town in 1853. Despite its rich lake resources, there was a lack of the water power needed to operate mills and Lakeville never attracted large scale manufacturing.
Nevertheless, through the 19th century, limited water power was used to develop tack and nail factories, a tannery, and some small shoe making companies. This development was short lived though and the town remained largely agricultural. Residential development was also limited when, late in the 19th century, surrounding communities drew off a significant amount of Lakeville's water supply and thus limited the growth of recreation and cottage potential of the town's lakeside properties. What remains though is a largely unspoiled community of open-space and suburban residential development.
In this tranquil community, there are less than 10,000 residents spread out over approximately 36 square miles. The beauty of this tucked away community is still to be appreciated by residents and visitors who have a wealth of recreational opportunities along the Long Pond recreational area which offers traditional summer sports as well as ice skating, ice boarding and ice fishing. The woods surrounding the towns other lakes provide hiking and picnicking spots. Additionally, there are three golf courses, indoor tennis facilities and a racquet and fitness club.
Home prices in this community offering such natural beauty and stunning lake views are surprisingly affordable. In February 2010, the average home sales price for a single family home or condo in Lakeville, MA was $275,400. While this data is collected from the MLS and deemed reliable, it is not guaranteed.
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