📍 Location & Geography
Amherst is a charming town located in the southern part of the state of New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in Hillsborough County and covers a total area of 34.7 square miles. The town is known for its picturesque landscape, featuring rolling hills, open fields, and dense forests. The Souhegan River, a tributary of the Merrimack River, flows through the town, adding to its scenic beauty.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Amherst, New Hampshire are approximately 42.86 degrees North latitude and 71.62 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Amherst is part of the New England region, known for its rich history and distinct seasons. The town covers a total area of 34.7 square miles, of which 34.2 square miles is land and 0.5 square miles is water. It is bordered by the towns of Merrimack to the east, Milford to the west, Bedford to the north, and Hollis to the south.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, the population of Amherst was approximately 11,201. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 43.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly white, accounting for about 95% of the population. Other races include Asian, African American, and Hispanic or Latino.
🏛️ History
Amherst was first settled in 1733 and was incorporated as a town in 1760. It was originally part of a larger land grant given to soldiers returning from the war in Canada. The town was named in honor of Lord Jeffrey Amherst, a British general known for his service in the French and Indian War. Amherst was once the county seat of Hillsborough County and was known for its bustling courthouse and jail.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Amherst is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Joe English Reservation and the Hodgman State Forest. The town’s landscape is characterized by its rolling hills, open fields, and dense forests. The Souhegan River, which flows through the town, offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The town is also part of the important bird area, making it a popular spot for bird watchers.
🏫 Education
Amherst is served by the Amherst School District, which includes Clark and Wilkins Elementary Schools, Amherst Middle School, and Souhegan High School. The town also has a private school, The Derryfield School. For higher education, residents have access to nearby institutions such as the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University.
🚧 Transportation
Amherst is accessible by road via New Hampshire Route 101 and Route 122. The town is approximately 15 miles from the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, providing domestic flight services. Public transportation is provided by the Nashua Transit System, offering bus services to nearby towns.
📜 Trivia & Events
Amherst hosts several annual events that draw visitors from around the region. These include the Amherst Fourth of July Celebration, which features a parade, fireworks, and a town fair, and the Amherst Garden Club’s annual plant sale. The town is also known for its historic town center, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.