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Waltham, Massachusetts

Located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, Waltham was founded in 1738. The Waltham Watch Company pioneered the American factory system. Both Brandeis and Bentley universities are in Waltham.
Founded 1738 | Population 65,000 | Peak 65,000 (2024) | County Middlesex County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Waltham, Massachusetts

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1738Founded: Waltham was founded as a railroad town in Middlesex County.
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1854Watch City: Waltham Watch Company pioneered factory system.
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1890Higher Education: Educational institutions helped define Waltham's character and economy.
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1948Brandeis: Brandeis University founded.
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2010Modern Era: Waltham continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1738 Culture
Founded
1854 Industry
Watch City
1890 Culture
Higher Education
1948 Culture
Brandeis
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
The Waltham Watch Company pioneered the American factory system.
2
Both Brandeis and Bentley universities are in Waltham.
3
Known as 'Watch City' for its watchmaking history.
4
Waltham is located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
5
Waltham was founded in 1738.

Famous People from Waltham, Massachusetts

KW
Kenneth G. Wilson
Physicist, Pedagogue · Born Jun 8, 1936 · Died Jun 15, 2013 (age 77)
CS
Caroll Spinney
Actor, Comedian · Born Dec 26, 1933 · Died Dec 8, 2019 (age 85)
MW
Mary Watson Whitney
Astronomer, University Teacher · Born Sep 11, 1847 · Died Jan 20, 1921 (age 73)
NB
Nathaniel P. Banks
Lawyer, Politician · Born Jan 30, 1816 · Died Sep 1, 1894 (age 78)
DK
Deena Kastor
Long-Distance Runner, Athletics Competitor · Born Feb 14, 1973 · Age 53
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