Shirley has long been influenced by its proximity to Fort Devens, which shaped its population and local economy throughout the 20th century. Modern Community Profile
Shirley is a historic town in Middlesex County , roughly 40 miles northwest of Boston.
The ZIP code (not 014720, which is an invalid six-digit number) refers to a specific United States Postal Service PO Box delivery area in Shirley, Massachusetts. 014720 zip
While the general residential area of Shirley uses 01464 , the 01472 code serves as a unique identifier for business and personal correspondence managed through the central Shirley post office. Geographic and Administrative Context
The town covers approximately 15.9 square miles , with a landscape defined by the Nashua and Squannacook Rivers. Shirley has long been influenced by its proximity
It sits adjacent to Ayer , Townsend, and Lunenburg, acting as a quiet suburban hub with strong ties to the regional MBTA commuter rail . Historical Foundations
Today, the area serves as a tranquil residential enclave with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. While the general residential area of Shirley uses
The town transitioned from an agricultural community to a small industrial center in the 19th century, utilizing water power from its local rivers for paper and cotton mills.