📍 Location & Geography
Francestown is a small town located in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, United States. It is nestled in the southern part of the state, approximately 25 miles west of Manchester. The town’s geography is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and several small bodies of water, including Scoby Pond and Pleasant Pond.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Francestown are approximately 42.99° N latitude and 71.83° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Francestown is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town spans an area of about 29.8 square miles, of which 29.6 square miles is land and 0.2 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the 2010 census, Francestown had a population of 1,562 people. The town’s population is predominantly white, with small percentages of Asian, African American, and other races. The median age is around 45 years, indicating a slightly older population compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Francestown was incorporated in 1772, named after Frances Deering Wentworth, the wife of then-governor John Wentworth. The town was originally settled by Scotch-Irish immigrants and was primarily an agricultural community. In the 19th century, Francestown became known for its soapstone and granite quarries, and it was home to the second oldest ski area in New Hampshire, the Crotched Mountain Ski & Ride.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Francestown is known for its natural beauty, with several conservation areas, parks, and trails. The town is home to Crotched Mountain, part of the Wapack Range, which offers hiking and skiing opportunities. The Francestown Land Trust has also preserved several parcels of land for public enjoyment and environmental protection.
🏫 Education
Education in Francestown is managed by the Contoocook Valley Regional School District. The town has one elementary school, Francestown Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through 4th grade. For middle and high school, students attend schools in the nearby towns of Weare and Peterborough.
🚧 Transportation
Francestown is primarily a car-dependent town, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for transportation. The town is served by state routes 136 and 47. The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 30 miles east of Francestown.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Francestown celebrates Labor Day with a community fair that features a parade, road race, art show, and various family-friendly activities. The town is also known for its historical buildings, including the Francestown Improvement and Historical Society, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.