📍 Location & Geography
Temple is a charming town located in Hillsborough County, in the southern region of the state of New Hampshire, United States. The town is nestled in the Monadnock Region, known for its rolling hills and beautiful landscapes. Temple covers a total area of 15.8 square miles, of which 15.7 square miles is land and 0.1 square miles is water. The town is surrounded by several other towns including Wilton, Lyndeborough, and Peterborough.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Temple, New Hampshire, are approximately 42.82° N latitude and 71.85° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Temple is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It lies within the Monadnock Region, a rural area known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is part of Hillsborough County, the most populous county in New Hampshire.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Temple was 1,366. The town’s population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Temple is higher than the national average, reflecting a significant number of retirees in the town. The town has a balanced gender ratio, with slightly more females than males.
🏛️ History
Temple was first settled in 1750 as Peterborough Slip, named after the town of Peterborough to its north. The town was incorporated as Temple on December 13, 1768, named in honor of John Temple, Lieutenant Governor of New Hampshire under John Wentworth. The town’s historical landmarks include the Temple Town Hall, a classic example of a 19th-century public building, and the Temple Glassworks site, where a glass factory operated from 1780 to 1781.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Temple is blessed with abundant natural beauty. The town is home to several hills, including Temple Mountain, which is popular for hiking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The town also features several bodies of water, including the Souhegan River and numerous small ponds. The town’s natural environment supports a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and various bird species.
🏫 Education
Education in Temple is managed by the Contoocook Valley School District. The town itself is home to Temple Elementary School, which serves students in kindergarten through fourth grade. For middle and high school, students attend schools in the nearby towns of Peterborough and Wilton.
🚧 Transportation
Temple is served by state routes 45 and 101, providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The town is approximately 20 miles from Nashua, the second-largest city in New Hampshire, and about 70 miles from Boston, Massachusetts. The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 30 miles to the northeast.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Temple hosts a variety of community events, including the Temple Harvest Festival and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. One interesting piece of trivia is that Temple was once home to the Temple Mountain Ski Area, the first ski area in New Hampshire with a chairlift. Though the ski area closed in 2001, it remains a significant part of the town’s history.