Truro is the section of Cape Cod/Barnstable County that connects Provincetown to the rest of the arm. It’s located approximately 100 miles from Boston. The small resort town is made up of two smaller villages, North Truro and Truro proper. Sometimes referred to as the Outer Cape, Truro gets its name from its sister village in Cornwall, England.
The area was visited as early as 1620 by the Pilgrims but wasn’t actually established as a settlement into after 1690. Occupied by the Wampanoag tribe, the area supported an abundance of wildlife The settlers quickly took to the hunting and fishing. Maize was also grown and used to supplement their food supply. In addition to the lucrative fishing industry, the settlers also supported themselves through both whaling and shipbuilding. The harsh tides of the Lower Cape forced workers to move their enterprises to other locations as the area’s main port began to deteriorate.
Truro is known for its high-end lifestyle and affluent residential areas. Famous artists gravitate to the area for both its beauty and the lighting. Considered to be quite exclusive, the dunes and rolling hills are some of the most beautiful on the Cape. It is also the home of the first lighthouse on Cape Cod, the Highland, or Cape Cod Light. At one point in 1996, the entire lighthouse had to be moved away from the shoreline due to extensive erosion from the harsh tides.
The entire town of Truro encompasses approximately 26 square miles, half of which is included within the Cape Cod National Seashore. The National Seashore was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy as a way of preserving the area’s rich, natural heritage and beauty. With almost 5 square miles of Truro being water, the shoreline and beaches play a prominent role.
Visitors to the area have several options in terms of historical landmarks and places to spend the day. Corn Hill Beach, Head of the Meadow Beach, and the Highland Lighthouse are ideal for those who want to stay close to the water. The Blackfish and Box Lunch are good choices if you want to experience delicious, New England style food. For lodging, you can try the Oceana Cottages or the Sandpiper.
Residents who live in the area, especially close to the water will sometimes rent out their homes to visitors who are planning on an extended stay. Due to affluence in many of the neighborhoods, upscale houses and large family homes are in abundance. Luxury condos can be found both close to the beach as well as near the downtown area. There are also small quiet neighborhoods where people can settle into a quiet, laid-back lifestyle that many consider living the American Dream.