Physically the most distinguishing feature of Princeton is Mt. Wachusett, the highest mountain in Massachusetts east of the Connecticut River. From Princeton, residents look down on Boston, fifty miles away, both literally and figuratively. The town is very small, a community which desires, at least on the part of many of its residents, to resist any urbanization and to maintain its rural character as much as possible. It is commonly said that new residents, once they have settled down, feel that Princeton should shut the town gates and restrict its population.
It is difficult to categorize all the factors which bring about a sense of proprietorship in newcomers as well as in those who have lived in town all their lives, but residents affirm without fear of exaggeration that those who come seem to feel they have discovered the place.
