About Rockland

A Little History...

The Town first settled around 1673. It was formerly the northeast section of Abington.  Rockland derived its name geologically from its rocky nature. A "large rock" is mentioned in the description of the Town Seal. Rockland was incorporated March 9, 1874.

Rockland was settled by European settlers, as a northeastern region of neighboring Abington in 1673. The town separated and incorporated as Rockland on March 9, 1874. It is named for the town's rocky nature, which was better suited for mills and industry than for farming.

Historically, Rockland is best known for its industrial history and was home to many shoe manufacturers.  It is believed that Rockland shod approximately half the shoes for the Union Army during the Civil War.  Today Rockland is primarily a suburb of Boston; and the mills have been repurposed into venues for housing and local artists.

Why live in Rockland?

Rockland may be a quiet town tucked away south of Boston, but if you look at it the right way, it’s in the middle of everything.

You can drive 20 minutes in any direction and get to great places.  Traffic permitting, of course. But the town is just off Route 3, a gateway to Boston to the north and Plymouth to the south. And while Rockland doesn’t have a shoreline, it is just one town from the ocean.

Living in Rockland, you get the best of both worlds—an easy commute to Boston and only a 30-40 minute drive to some of the state’s most beautiful beaches.  People who live in Rockland love the convenience of having Target, Stop & Shop, Big Y World Class Market, Derby Street Shops, and the MBTA Commuter Rail nearby.  They also enjoy having Home Depot, CVS, Walgreens, and Highway Access right in town.

Rockland offers a wide array of restaurants and bars including Lucca, Mineiros Brazilian Steakhouse, Players Sports Bar & Grill. Rockland also has one of the area’s best breakfast spots, Jac’s Café, known for its amazing homemade donuts.  There are some great take-out options in Rockland including Themis Pizza, Spicy Edamame (Sushi/Japanese/Chinese), and Little Bangkok (Thai Restaurant) to name a few.  Rockland is also home to the delicious MaGoo’s Ice Cream Shop.

There’s plenty to do in Rockland.  If you enjoy getting outdoors, you’ll love walking at Thompson Pond and Twin Ponds Trail System, the Rockland Rail Trail, and the Rockland Town Forest.  There’s fun for all ages at Hartsuff Park. Hartsuff has a playground, ball fields, a sandy bottom swimming hole, picnic area, walking trails, an 18-hole disc golf course. Rockland also has a senior center with a clubhouse and an outdoor pickleball court. There are two golf courses in Rockland—the Rockland Golf Course and the Harmon Golf and Fitness Club—and a great mini-golf course at McGoo’s. The Rockland Park and Recreation Department and the Rockland Town Library also offer a variety of activities and programs for children and residents throughout the year.

Rockland hosts several special community-wide events each year.  The Rockland Christmas Festival which takes place in the town center is a highlight of the holiday season. Then Rockland kicks off the summer right with a Rockland Day Celebration each June. This event includes free children's activities, arts & crafts, live bands, food trucks, a double elimination whiffle ball tournament, and a spectacular fireworks display. There are many opportunities to meet people and get involved in the Rockland community. Residents that are new to town will quickly feel at home.

My Favorite Restaurant Picks

Lucca Restaurant & Bar Fine Italian Dining sourced from local farms

Players Sports Bar & Grille American comfort food with entertainment.  Burgers, salads, steak tips and more!

If you are considering buying a home in Rockland, MA, please feel free to contact Realtor Deborah Grigas at Coldwell Banker Realty at 978-407-0993 or by email at Deborah.grigas@cbrealty.com.