Massachusetts, the "Bay State," the "Cradle of Liberty," the birthplace of American democracy – it boasts a rich tapestry of official and widely recognized nicknames that reflect its historical significance and cultural identity. Yet, lurking beneath these familiar monikers is a more cryptic and geographically specific nickname: "90." To those outside its orbit, it may sound like a radio station or a speed limit. But within Massachusetts, particularly in the western and central regions, "90" serves as a shorthand, a conversational shortcut, and a subtle marker of belonging, alluding to the Massachusetts Turnpike, officially known as Interstate 90.
While not universally embraced or even understood throughout the state, "90" holds a unique and fascinating place in the lexicon of Massachusetts. Its usage, evolution, and the reasons behind its adoption offer a glimpse into the state’s geographical realities, its cultural nuances, and the way its residents perceive and navigate their home. This article delves into the curious case of "90," exploring its origins, its prevalence, its limitations, and ultimately, its significance as an unofficial, geographically-bound nickname for Massachusetts.
The Road to "90": Origins and Geographical Context
The story of "90" begins, unsurprisingly, with the construction and subsequent impact of the Massachusetts Turnpike. Built in the late 1950s and early 1960s, the Turnpike, designated as Interstate 90, was a monumental undertaking that dramatically altered the landscape and connectivity of the state. Prior to its existence, traversing Massachusetts from east to west was a considerably slower and more arduous endeavor, relying on winding local roads and often congested routes.
The Turnpike provided a high-speed, limited-access highway that effectively cut through the state’s central and western regions, linking Boston and the eastern population centers with the Berkshires and, eventually, New York State via the connection to the New York State Thruway. This new artery of transportation fundamentally reshaped the way people lived, worked, and traveled across Massachusetts.
Several factors contributed to the Turnpike’s eventual association with the state itself:
- Dominance of the East-West Corridor: For many residents, particularly those living west of Boston, the Turnpike became the primary means of accessing the eastern part of the state, including the capital and major economic hubs. It represented the most efficient and direct route, overshadowing older, more circuitous routes.
- Geographical Divide: The Turnpike essentially bifurcated the state, creating a distinct geographical divide. Those living "off 90" or "near 90" became common locational descriptors, highlighting the highway’s centrality in daily life and travel planning.
- Sense of Connection: The Turnpike, despite its functional nature, fostered a sense of connection between disparate regions of the state. It allowed for easier access to cultural events, sporting competitions, and family gatherings, bridging the gap between the eastern and western communities.
- Simplicity and Brevity: In an era of increasingly complex interstate highway systems, the simple and easily remembered "90" became a convenient shorthand for referring to the Turnpike itself. This brevity naturally extended to its association with the state it traversed.
Therefore, the Turnpike, as a transformative infrastructure project that profoundly impacted travel patterns and spatial awareness, laid the foundation for the eventual adoption of "90" as an unofficial nickname for Massachusetts.
The Evolution of Usage: From Highway to State
The transition from "90" as a reference to the Turnpike to "90" as a stand-in for Massachusetts was a gradual and largely organic process. It wasn’t a formal designation or a conscious marketing campaign; rather, it evolved through informal conversations, localized media mentions, and the collective understanding of those who frequently utilized the highway.
Several factors contributed to this evolution:
- Contextual Clarity: The use of "90" as a shorthand for Massachusetts typically occurs within a specific context. It’s most common among residents of western and central Massachusetts, particularly when discussing travel plans, geographical comparisons, or regional differences within the state. The shared understanding of the Turnpike’s importance allows for the implicit substitution of "90" for the state itself.
- Regional Identity: For many residents of western Massachusetts, "90" became a symbol of their connection to the rest of the state. It represented the artery that linked them to Boston and the eastern economic engine. Referencing "90" became a subtle way of asserting their belonging to the broader Massachusetts identity, while simultaneously acknowledging their distinct regional perspective.
- Conversational Convenience: In casual conversation, "90" provides a convenient and concise way to refer to the state, particularly when discussing travel times, geographical proximity, or comparing locations within Massachusetts. For example, "It’s a three-hour drive to Boston from here, right off 90" is a quicker and more familiar way of saying "It’s a three-hour drive to Boston from here, right off the Massachusetts Turnpike."
- Media Adoption (Limited): While not a widespread phenomenon, some local media outlets, particularly in western Massachusetts, occasionally use "90" as a shorthand reference to the state in headlines or news reports, further reinforcing its association with the region.
However, it’s crucial to emphasize that the use of "90" as a nickname for Massachusetts is not universal. It remains a geographically localized and context-dependent phenomenon, primarily prevalent in the western and central regions of the state.
The Limits of "90": Geographical and Cultural Divides
Despite its significance within certain circles, the nickname "90" faces inherent limitations that prevent it from achieving widespread adoption and recognition as a legitimate moniker for Massachusetts. These limitations stem from geographical realities, cultural differences, and the existing landscape of well-established state nicknames.
- Eastern Exclusion: The primary limitation of "90" is its limited appeal and recognition in eastern Massachusetts, particularly in the Boston metropolitan area. For residents of eastern Massachusetts, the Turnpike is often perceived as a route out of the city, rather than a defining feature of their daily lives. The highway’s significance diminishes as one moves closer to the coast, where alternative routes and a more diverse transportation network exist.
- Lack of Historical or Cultural Significance: Unlike the "Bay State" or the "Cradle of Liberty," "90" lacks any direct connection to the state’s rich history, cultural heritage, or founding principles. It’s a purely functional reference to a highway, devoid of the emotional resonance and symbolic weight that traditional nicknames carry.
- Confusion and Ambiguity: To those unfamiliar with the Turnpike’s prominence in Massachusetts, the term "90" can be confusing and ambiguous. It could be interpreted as a reference to a radio station, a speed limit, or even a different interstate highway altogether. This lack of immediate clarity hinders its ability to function as a universally understood nickname.
- Competition with Established Nicknames: Massachusetts already boasts a plethora of well-established nicknames that have been ingrained in the public consciousness for generations. The "Bay State," the "Cradle of Liberty," and even the "Taxachusetts" moniker each carry a distinct historical, cultural, or political connotation that resonates with a wider audience. "90" simply cannot compete with the established brand recognition of these traditional nicknames.
- Perception of Provincialism: Using "90" as a nickname for Massachusetts can sometimes be perceived as provincial or geographically narrow-minded, particularly by those who reside outside of the Turnpike’s immediate influence. It can reinforce the stereotype of western Massachusetts being disconnected from the eastern population centers and overly reliant on the highway for its identity.
Therefore, while "90" serves as a meaningful shorthand for Massachusetts within specific geographical and social contexts, its limitations prevent it from achieving widespread adoption and acceptance as a legitimate state nickname.
The Enduring Significance of "90": A Marker of Belonging
Despite its limitations, the continued use of "90" as a nickname for Massachusetts holds enduring significance, particularly within the communities that actively employ it. It serves as a marker of belonging, a subtle indicator of shared experience, and a reflection of the geographical realities that shape the lives of many residents.
- Insider Knowledge: Using "90" demonstrates a certain level of familiarity with the state’s geography and transportation infrastructure. It signifies an understanding of the Turnpike’s importance and its impact on daily life, setting the speaker apart as someone who is "in the know."
- Regional Pride: For residents of western and central Massachusetts, "90" can be a source of regional pride. It represents their connection to the rest of the state, their ability to navigate the transportation network, and their understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with living outside of the Boston metropolitan area.
- Conversational Shorthand: In casual conversation, "90" provides a convenient and efficient way to refer to the state, particularly when discussing travel plans, geographical proximity, or comparing locations within Massachusetts. It streamlines communication and fosters a sense of shared understanding among those who are familiar with the term.
- Subtle Identity Marker: Using "90" can be a subtle way of identifying oneself as a resident of western or central Massachusetts. It’s a discreet signal that indicates a shared geographical perspective and a common understanding of the Turnpike’s importance.
In conclusion, while "90" may never achieve the widespread recognition and acceptance of traditional Massachusetts nicknames, its enduring use within specific communities speaks to its significance as a marker of belonging, a reflection of geographical realities, and a testament to the power of language to evolve and adapt to the needs of its users. It’s a reminder that nicknames, even unofficial and geographically-bound ones, can hold profound meaning and contribute to the rich and complex tapestry of cultural identity. "90" may not be the "Bay State," but for many in Massachusetts, it’s a piece of home, paved in asphalt and etched into the collective consciousness. It’s a story told not in grand pronouncements, but in the quiet, knowing nod that accompanies the simple utterance of a number. It’s a reminder that identity is often found not in official pronouncements, but in the shared experiences and linguistic shortcuts that bind communities together. And in that sense, "90" is more than just a highway; it’s a piece of Massachusetts itself.