The area now known as the city of Taunton was first settled in 1639. Iron Ore was discovered in 1652, which lead to a partnership of 23 people who started the iron works. This section of Taunton, the east end, where the iron works were located, became the Town of Raynham. The iron works were the dominant industry in Raynham for more than two centuries. Ship building was also an early part of Raynham's early economy. Over the years, Raynham has become home to many small industries, but stayed very much a rural town with many small farms. At one point, a town census listed more animals than people. Today, much of the farm land has been developed for housing and business use. With a land are of 20.3 square miles and a population of over 12,000. Raynham sa a thriving community. The town offers an excellent school system, an extensive Parks and Recreation Department, Council on Aging, Lions Club, and 11 different sports leagues and clubs. Raynham residents also enjoy an incredible convenience to routes 495, 95, and 24, making it an easy commute to Boston and its high tech areas, Cape Cod or Providence RI, and cities from Portland, ME to New York. Please visit the official Town of Raynham website: www.town.raynham.ma.us