📍 Location & Geography
Hanover is a picturesque town located in Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States. It is nestled along the Connecticut River in the Upper Valley region of New Hampshire. The town is characterized by its rolling hills, lush forests, and the beautiful Dartmouth College campus. Hanover’s terrain is a mix of flat river valleys and hilly uplands, providing a diverse landscape.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Hanover, New Hampshire are approximately 43.70 degrees North latitude and 72.29 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hanover is part of the Lebanon, NH-VT Micropolitan Statistical Area. The town spans an area of 50.3 square miles, of which 49.0 square miles is land and 1.3 square miles is water. The Connecticut River forms the western boundary of the town, separating it from Vermont.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Hanover had a population of 11,260 residents. The town has a diverse population, with a mix of students, faculty, and staff from Dartmouth College, as well as families and retirees. The median age in the town is around 23 years, significantly lower than the state average due to the student population.
🏛️ History
Hanover was first settled by Europeans in 1765 and incorporated as a town in 1761. The town was named after the House of Hanover in Germany, in honor of King George I, the first British monarch from the House of Hanover. Dartmouth College was established in Hanover in 1769, and it has been a significant part of the town’s identity and economy ever since.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hanover is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The town is home to the Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking trail that runs from Georgia to Maine. The Connecticut River also provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The town has several parks and nature reserves, including the Mink Brook Nature Reserve and the Balch Hill Natural Area.
🏫 Education
Education is a major focus in Hanover, which is home to Dartmouth College, an Ivy League university. The town also has a highly rated public school system, including Hanover High School and the Richmond Middle School. The Howe Library, a public library in the town, provides additional educational resources.
🚧 Transportation
Hanover is served by several major highways, including Interstates 89 and 91. The town also has a public transportation system, Advance Transit, which provides free bus service in the Upper Valley region. The Lebanon Municipal Airport, located just a few miles south of Hanover, offers commercial air service.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hanover hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Hanover Winter Carnival and the Dartmouth Homecoming. The town was also named the “Best Place to Live in America” by CNN and Money magazine in 2011. Dartmouth College’s Baker-Berry Library houses the Orozco Murals, a National Historic Landmark painted by Mexican artist José Clemente Orozco.