When people ask where I'm from, I typically respond with "just south of Boston" because I've come to learn that not so many people have ever heard of the tiny town of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Even though a lot of people aren't too sure of where this place really is, the people who have spent parts of their lives living there have come to appreciate the small town charm. Here are some things about East Bridgewater that all locals have come to know and love:
1. Viking Pizza
If you live in East Bridgewater, you know the convenience of the town's mascot supporting pizza place. Located at the center of town, you can find Vikings next to Tedeschi's and across the street from the old Dairy Queen, which is now (unfortunately) an insurance agency.
2. Skinner's Sugar House
Skinner's Sugar House is a cute little ice cream shop near the center of town. Not only do they serve ice cream, but they also offer various chocolates, nuts, candies, and any other treats you can think of!
3. Johnny D's
Not too far from Vikings and Skinners, Johnny D's is East Bridgewater's most popular spot for breakfast. No matter what day of the week, you can always find this place filled with local customers. Johnny D's customers come in all ages; from senior citizens getting their early bird special, to senior high school students skipping their first period classes.
4. Robbins Pond
Robins pond is a decent size body of water located near the edge of town. This pond is home to fishing and small boat outings in the summer, and skating and ice hockey once it freezes over.
5. Carriage Crossing Shopping Center
Even though this little strip mall isn't too exciting, it is pretty convenient. Ocean State Job Lot, CVS, Chinese food, Domino's, Subway, and a local liquor store are just a few of its features.
6. East Bridgewater Cinemas
You can find the small local movie theater at the back of Carriage Crossing, but it deserves its own point on this list. These movie theaters are known to be old and a little run down, but at least they're cheap! A good way to save a few bucks on a movie is by going to this local theater; the seats might not be as comfy, but you get a decent deal on the price.
7. Youth League Sports
East Bridgewater's population takes pride in their athletics. The parents get their kids involved in sports at a young age. This town celebrates their young athletes by having them walk in short parades at the start of each sports season. Youth involvement in sports leads to some very talented athletes in the high school.
8. High School Sports
This small town shows support for their children, no matter the age, by cheering them on from the sidelines of every event. Football, baseball, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, track, are just a few of this town's varsity sports that are supported by local residents. Each event brings out huge crowds (especially when you know its going to be a close game).
9. Johnny Macaroni's (and Johnny Macaroni's Two)
Every time you go out to enjoy a fresh Italian dinner at one of the two J-Macs locations, you're bound to see a familiar face. These restaurants are very popular among East Bridgewater locals, so popular that they had to expand to a whole additional store.
10. The Joppa
What is now known as the Joppa convenience store, located on route 18, was first known as the Joppa Grill.This small sandwich shop was a popular spot in town when it first opened in the 1920's, and even though it is a smaller location now, it is still well known.
11. The Common
East Bridgewater's common is at the heart of the town. This spacious grassy area is pretty vacant most days, but is used to celebrate in the summer, and is decorated during the holidays.
12. Dale And The Duds
Each summer, you could find this band playing on the common for residents of the town. Everyone comes together to celebrate the kick off of summer break while enjoying classic rock and roll songs performed by the band.
13. Christmas On The Common
Even in the cold winter weather, East Bridgewater's residents come together to celebrate the holiday season. Lines of local clubs, sports teams, businesses, dance studios, and police/emergency vehicles maneuver along the streets of the small town, meeting at the common. After the parade, there is lots of food to eat and local businesses show off what they have to offer.
14. You're Not From Bridgewater?
No, East Bridgewateris not the same town as Bridgewater and neither is West Bridgewater. When we say we're from East Bridgewater, that's exactly what we mean. But, most people like to group all the Bridgewaters together as one, as if they are the different parts of Boston or Quincy.
I loved growing up in a small town, and East Bridgewater is somewhere I'm proud to say I'm from.
