Rutland was incorporated in 1722 and quickly earned the distinction of being the “Geographic Center of Massachusetts,” a title still marked today by the famous Central Tree. Historically, the town’s high elevation and remarkably clean air transformed it from a standard agricultural settlement into a renowned medical hub during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It became famous as the “Health Resort of New England” following the establishment of the Rutland State Sanatorium, the first state-run institution in the United States dedicated to treating tuberculosis. This medical era brought significant infrastructure and a specialized population to the hilltop town, defining its local economy and social structure for nearly a century.

In the modern era, Rutland has transitioned from a specialized medical destination into a peaceful residential community that emphasizes its rural atmosphere and outdoor assets. While the massive sanatoriums have long since closed or been repurposed, the town’s height continues to provide some of the most scenic vistas in Worcester County. Today, it serves as a popular bedroom community for professionals seeking a quieter pace of life with easy access to the Barre Falls Dam and the Midstate Trail for recreation. The community remains focused on preserving its historic “small-town” feel and managing residential growth, ensuring that its identity as the elevated, quiet heart of the Commonwealth remains preserved for future generations.