Unraveling The Mystery: Exploring Lakeville, MA And The "Pink Eye Village" Nickname
Nestled in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, lies the charming town of Lakeville. Known for its abundant natural beauty, friendly community, and rich history, Lakeville offers a quintessential New England experience. However, for those who grew up in the area or have heard the local whispers, another, more peculiar moniker sometimes surfaces: "Pink Eye Village." This intriguing nickname sparks curiosity and often raises questions about its origins and the community it describes. So, what's the story behind "Pink Eye Village," and what does it tell us about Lakeville, MA?
Lakeville, MA: More Than Just a Nickname
Before delving into the folklore, it's essential to understand Lakeville itself. This small town, with a land area of 29.9 square miles, is a hidden gem that many outside the region haven't even heard of, let alone its neighboring towns. Despite its relative obscurity to outsiders, Lakeville is a vibrant community with a population of 11,523 as per the 2020 census, growing from 10,600 residents previously. Geographically, it's conveniently located about 30 miles south of Boston and 20 miles north of Providence, Rhode Island.
A Glimpse into Lakeville's Identity and History
Lakeville boasts a fascinating past. It was once part of Middleborough before it was incorporated as its own town in 1853. But its history stretches back much further. Native Americans inhabited southern Massachusetts for thousands of years prior to European colonization, and Lakeville is a site with significant indigenous history. Soewampset, for instance, is listed as a noted habitation in a 1634 list of settlements in New England, suggesting that Assawompset Pond, one of Lakeville's most prominent bodies of water, may take its name from a former Wampanoag settlement.
The town's name, "Lakeville," is no accident. It lives up to its moniker with an impressive aquatic landscape. It has over 4,000 acres of lakes, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. There are five main lakes within Lakeville, with Assawompset Pond being the largest. Residents and visitors alike can hike for miles next to these enormous sheets of water, discover rich birdlife, launch a kayak, go fishing, or simply enjoy the serene views. Beyond its natural allure, Lakeville is also recognized for its great athletic and academic programs, fostering a strong community spirit.
The Legend of "Pink Eye Village"
Now, let's address the elephant in the room – the "Pink Eye Village" nickname. This term is indeed used by locals, though often with a mix of historical context and perhaps a touch of local humor or even discomfort. The origins of this peculiar moniker are rooted in a specific part of town and a unique demographic that once resided there.
Origins of a Peculiar Moniker
According to local lore and various accounts, Lakeville is sometimes referred to as "Pink Eye Village" because of a highly populated area of albinos. Some accounts are more blunt, describing it as a "creepy cluster of inbred albinos living in Lakeville, Ma." These descriptions often come with unsettling details, such as houses that "looked like they were built with" crude materials, or the implication of isolation and intermarriage, with one definition even grimly suggesting it's "the part of town where it is not uncommon for your dad to be your [grandad]."
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The specific location often cited for "Pink Eye Village" is East Taunton, on the Lakeville line, or "just east of East Taunton." This area reportedly housed a "peculiar race of people that stick close to their native" roots, further fueling the narrative of an isolated community. While some social media mentions might casually tag it with "redneck" hashtags, other sources clarify that its notoriety didn't come from being "redneck," but "for something else" – specifically, the prevalence of albinism and the associated social dynamics.
The term "juckets" is also sometimes associated with "Pink Eye Village," defined as "The part of town where juckets live in large numbers." This term, often derogatory, reinforces the perception of a distinct, and often marginalized, group of people being the source of the nickname.
Separating Fact from Folklore
It's important to approach the "Pink Eye Village" narrative with sensitivity. While the nickname undoubtedly exists and is known by locals, its origins are steeped in historical perceptions and possibly exaggerated folklore. The presence of a community with a higher incidence of albinism likely led to the nickname, which then evolved through word-of-mouth, possibly accumulating more sensational details over time.
Today, Lakeville is a diverse and welcoming community. The historical circumstances that led to the nickname are a part of its past, but they do not define the entirety of the town or its current residents. The folklore serves as a reminder of how local history and unique demographics can shape community identity and create enduring legends.
Experiencing Lakeville Today
Beyond its intriguing folklore, Lakeville, MA, offers a genuinely wonderful experience for residents and visitors alike. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle.
Here are just a few things you can do and experience in Lakeville:
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore miles of hiking trails along the lakes, go birdwatching, or enjoy various water sports like kayaking and fishing on Assawompset Pond and other lakes.
- Golfing: Play a round at one of the three golf courses available in the area.
- Family Fun: Discover numerous family activities, events, and playgrounds, making it a great place for kids.
- Community Spirit: Benefit from excellent athletic and academic programs that contribute to a strong, friendly community atmosphere.
- New Developments: Keep an eye on upcoming housing opportunities, such as The Villas at LeBaron Hills, an approved 52-condominium unit community, which includes designated affordable units.
While the "Pink Eye Village" nickname remains a curious piece of local lore, it's just one facet of Lakeville's multifaceted identity. The town is much more than a historical anecdote; it's a thriving community with natural beauty, rich history, and a welcoming environment.
Final Summary: Lakeville, MA, is a small, lake-filled town in Plymouth County with a rich indigenous history and a population of over 11,500. It's known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and strong community programs. Locally, it's sometimes referred to as "Pink Eye Village" due to a historical concentration of albinos in a specific area near East Taunton, a nickname that has evolved into local folklore, sometimes associated with sensational and derogatory descriptions. Despite this curious nickname, Lakeville today is a friendly, diverse community offering a high quality of life and plenty to explore beyond its unique historical anecdotes.
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