Lakeville

The Town of Lakeville is an inland rural community on the Plymouth-Bristol county boundary. First settlement of the town was in approximately 1702 when a forge was erected to use the bog iron in Assawompset and Long Ponds.

The town was basically agricultural since it lacked the major water resources to attract early industrialists. In the 19th century, however, its limited water power allowed development of the tack and nail factory, a tannery, and some small shoe making companies. Later in the century, neighboring communities drew off a significant percentage of the Lakeville water supply and cut off the cottage and recreational potential of lakeside properties.

With the shriveling of industry, the town has remained essentially as it began, a pleasant rural community still showing significant agricultural character but with some suburban development pressures visible. Residents are very proud of the community’s continuing beauty, and enjoy using the Long Pond recreational area which offers traditional summer sports as well as ice skating, ice boarding and ice fishing. The woodlands surrounding the town’s lakes provide hiking and picnicking opportunities while three golf courses, indoor tennis facilities and a racquet and fitness club provide for the athletic interests of residents.