Much of Chelmsford’s present area was a Praying Town in the mid-1600s, an established preserve for Christianized Indians. It was an agricultural community with dairy farms and orchards as its specialties. Located 24 miles northwest of Boston, Chelmsford today is a suburban community offering country-like charm and atmosphere while providing access to modern infrastructure, educational and cultural opportunities, a mix of retail establishments and restaurants and a stable and prospering business environment. In 2007, Chelmsford was declared the 21st best place to live in the U.S. according to Money Magazine. The town borders on five other towns, including Lowell, Tewksbury, Carlisle, Billerica, Westford and Tyngsboro. Chelmsford’s historic Town Common hosts large celebrations for the Fourth of July and February Winterfest.