📍 Location & Geography
Stratham is a town located in the southeastern part of New Hampshire, within Rockingham County. The town is situated between Great Bay and the Squamscott River, which provides it with a rich and diverse landscape. Stratham covers a total area of 15.5 square miles, of which 0.2 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Stratham, New Hampshire are approximately 43° 2′ 6″ N latitude, and 70° 54′ 58″ W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Stratham is part of the Seacoast region of New Hampshire, an area known for its beautiful coastal landscapes and historic charm. The town is surrounded by the communities of Greenland to the east, Exeter to the west, Newfields to the north, and Hampton and North Hampton to the south.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2019, the population of Stratham was estimated at around 7,255 people. The town is predominantly White (96.4%), with small percentages of Asian (1.2%), African American (0.8%), and other races. The median age in Stratham is approximately 46.8 years.
🏛️ History
Stratham was incorporated as a town in 1716. It was originally part of a larger tract of land granted to Captain John Mason, who named the area after his home county of Hampshire in England. The town’s early economy was primarily based on farming and fishing.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Stratham is home to a variety of natural features and outdoor spaces. The town is known for Stratham Hill Park, a popular destination for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Squamscott River and Great Bay provide opportunities for boating and fishing. The town is also part of the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, a protected area dedicated to the study and conservation of estuarine systems.
🏫 Education
Education in Stratham is managed by the Exeter Region Cooperative School District. The town is home to Stratham Memorial School, which serves students in grades Pre-K through 5. Middle and high school students attend the Cooperative Middle School and Exeter High School, respectively, both located in neighboring Exeter.
🚧 Transportation
Stratham is served by U.S. Route 1 and New Hampshire Route 33, which provide easy access to nearby cities and towns. The town is also within a short drive of Interstate 95, offering convenient connections to the wider New England region. Public transportation is provided by the Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation (COAST), which operates several bus routes through the area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Stratham hosts the Stratham Fair, one of the oldest country fairs in New England. The event features livestock shows, carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment. The town is also known for the Wiggin Memorial Library, which hosts a variety of community events and programs throughout the year.