📍 Location & Geography
New Durham is a town located in Strafford County, in the state of New Hampshire, United States. The town is situated in the southeastern part of the state and covers a total area of 44.6 square miles. New Durham is characterized by hilly terrain and is home to the southern part of Merrymeeting Lake, which is one of the major bodies of water in the region.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of New Durham, New Hampshire are approximately 43.43 degrees north latitude and 71.17 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
New Durham is part of the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, a popular tourist area known for its lakes, mountains, and recreational activities. The town covers a total area of 44.6 square miles, of which 41.9 square miles is land and 2.7 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of New Durham was 2,638. The town’s population is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races. The median age in the town is around 43 years.
🏛️ History
New Durham was incorporated as a town in 1762 by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth. The town was named after Durham, England, the ancestral home of the Wentworth family. Early settlers were primarily engaged in farming, with the hilly terrain providing good pasture for livestock.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
New Durham is known for its natural beauty, with Merrymeeting Lake being a major attraction. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The town is also home to a portion of the Jones Brook Wildlife Management Area, which offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The town’s hilly terrain and forests also provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife.
🏫 Education
Education in New Durham is managed by the Governor Wentworth Regional School District. The New Durham School serves students in grades K-6, while older students attend Kingswood Regional Middle School and Kingswood Regional High School in the neighboring town of Wolfeboro.
🚧 Transportation
New Hampshire Route 11 is the main highway passing through New Durham, connecting the town to the cities of Rochester to the south and Laconia to the north. The town is approximately 40 miles from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and 100 miles from Boston, Massachusetts. The closest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 60 miles to the south.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, New Durham hosts a variety of community events, including the New Durham Day in August, which features a parade, games, and food. The town is also known for the Powder Mill Fish Hatchery, one of the largest fish hatcheries in the state, which offers tours and educational programs.