📍 Location & Geography
Jefferson is a town located in the state of New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in Coos County, one of the ten counties in the state. The town is nestled in the White Mountains, a mountain range covering about a quarter of the state of New Hampshire. Jefferson is characterized by its hilly terrain, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Jefferson, New Hampshire are approximately 44.4167° N latitude and 71.4667° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Jefferson is part of the Northern New Hampshire region, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town covers a total area of approximately 49.8 square miles, of which 49.3 square miles is land and 0.5 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Jefferson had a population of approximately 1,107 residents. The population density was around 22 people per square mile. The town’s population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races. The median age of the residents is around 45 years.
🏛️ History
The town of Jefferson was first granted by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth in 1765, and it was initially named “Dartmouth” after William Legge, 2nd Earl of Dartmouth. However, the town was later renamed “Jefferson” in honor of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Jefferson is home to parts of the White Mountain National Forest, a federally managed forest protected as a national forest. It is also home to the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The town’s landscape is dominated by the Presidential Range of the White Mountains, offering stunning vistas and outdoor recreational opportunities.
🏫 Education
Education in Jefferson is managed by the School Administrative Unit 36. The town has one elementary school, the Jefferson Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through 8th grade. High school students typically attend White Mountains Regional High School in nearby Whitefield.
🚧 Transportation
Jefferson is served by U.S. Route 2 and New Hampshire Route 115. The nearest commercial airports are Portland International Jetport in Portland, Maine, and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in Manchester, New Hampshire. Jefferson’s rural setting means that personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation.
📜 Trivia & Events
Jefferson is home to Santa’s Village, a Christmas-themed amusement park that is a popular attraction for families. It is also known for the annual Lupine Festival, which celebrates the blossoming of lupine flowers in the region. The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling, thanks to its location in the White Mountains.