📍 Location & Geography
Hancock is a charming small town located in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, United States. The town is situated in the southern part of the state, nestled in the heart of the Monadnock Region. It spans a total area of 31.3 square miles, of which 30.1 square miles is land and 1.2 square miles is water. The Contoocook River, one of the major rivers in New Hampshire, runs through the town, adding to its scenic beauty.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Hancock, New Hampshire, are approximately 42.97 degrees north latitude and 71.98 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hancock is part of the Monadnock Region, which is named after Mount Monadnock, one of the most climbed mountains in the world. The town is nestled in the rolling hills of southern New Hampshire, with the scenic Contoocook River flowing through it. The town covers a total area of 31.3 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, Hancock had a population of 1,654 residents. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, Asian, African American, or from other races. The median age in Hancock is around 50 years, indicating a slightly older population compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Hancock was first settled in 1764 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1779. It was named in honor of John Hancock, a prominent patriot of the American Revolution and the first to sign the United States Declaration of Independence. The town’s history is well-preserved in its historic district, which includes several buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hancock is known for its natural beauty, with abundant forests, rolling hills, and the scenic Contoocook River. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Harris Center for Conservation Education, which offers hiking trails and educational programs about the local ecosystem. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its participation in the Tree City USA program, a national initiative that promotes urban forestry.
🏫 Education
Education in Hancock is managed by the Contoocook Valley School District. The town itself is home to the Hancock Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through fourth grade. For middle and high school, students attend schools in the nearby towns of Peterborough and Antrim.
🚧 Transportation
Hancock is served by a network of state and local roads, including New Hampshire Route 123 and New Hampshire Route 137. The town is approximately 30 miles west of the city of Manchester, which offers the nearest major airport, the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport. Public transportation options are limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hancock hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Old Home Days, a week-long celebration featuring parades, concerts, and other community activities. The town is also known for its historic Meetinghouse, a beautifully preserved 19th-century building that is still used for town meetings and other events. Additionally, Hancock is home to the Hancock Inn, the oldest inn in New Hampshire, which has been in continuous operation since 1789.