📍 Location & Geography
Ashland is a picturesque town located in Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in the central part of the state, nestled within the Lakes Region near the geographical center of New Hampshire. The town is bordered by the towns of Holderness to the north and west, New Hampton to the east, and Bridgewater to the south. Ashland is drained by the Squam River and is home to part of Little Squam Lake, a natural freshwater lake.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Ashland are approximately 43°41′37″N latitude and 71°37′51″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Ashland is part of the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, a popular tourist destination known for its lakes and outdoor activities. The town covers an area of approximately 11.4 square miles (29.5 km²), of which 11.2 square miles (29.0 km²) is land and 0.2 square miles (0.5 km²) is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Ashland had a population of approximately 2,076 people. The town’s demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Ashland is around 45 years, and the town has a slightly higher number of females than males.
🏛️ History
Ashland was originally part of the town of Holderness, but was separated and incorporated as a town in its own right in 1868. The town was named after the Kentucky estate of Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman in the 19th century. Ashland grew rapidly during the industrial revolution, with industries such as a paper mill, a shovel handle factory, and a bobbin factory contributing to its growth.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Ashland is known for its natural beauty, with Little Squam Lake and the Squam River offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The town is also home to Whitten Woods, a local nature preserve offering hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding area. The town is committed to preserving its natural resources and has several conservation areas.
🏫 Education
Education in Ashland is administered by the Ashland School District. The town has one elementary school, Ashland Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Plymouth Regional High School, located in the nearby town of Plymouth.
🚧 Transportation
Ashland is served by Interstate 93, which provides easy access to other parts of New Hampshire and New England. The town also has a station on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, offering seasonal train rides along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. The nearest commercial airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located approximately 70 miles to the south.
📜 Trivia & Events
Ashland is home to the annual Ashland Independence Day Celebration, a popular event featuring a parade, fireworks, and various community activities. The town also hosts the annual Squam Lakes Association’s Winterfest, a celebration of winter with outdoor activities and games. Ashland’s historical downtown area, with its charming 19th-century buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.