📍 Location & Geography
Bedford is a suburban town located in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, bordered by Merrimack to the west, Goffstown and New Boston to the north, Manchester to the east, and Amherst to the south. The town is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, open fields, and dense forests, with the Merrimack River forming part of its western boundary.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Bedford, New Hampshire are approximately 42.94 degrees North latitude and 71.52 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bedford is part of the Greater Manchester metropolitan area, the largest metropolitan area in northern New England. The town covers a total area of 33.1 square miles, of which 32.8 square miles is land and 0.3 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Bedford has a population of approximately 22,500 residents. The town has a fairly homogeneous population, with a majority of residents being of European descent. The median age in Bedford is around 44 years, and the town has a slightly higher percentage of families with children compared to the national average.
🏛️ History
Bedford was first settled by Europeans around 1737 and was incorporated as a town in 1750. It was named after the town of Bedford in England. Over the years, Bedford evolved from a farming community to a suburban town. It experienced significant growth in the late 20th century, with many new residential developments and commercial establishments.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bedford is home to several parks and nature reserves, offering residents and visitors a variety of outdoor activities. These include the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area, Van Loan Preserve, and Benedictine Park. The town is also part of the Merrimack River watershed, which is known for its diverse wildlife and recreational opportunities.
🏫 Education
Bedford is served by the Bedford School District, which operates several public schools, including Bedford High School, Ross A. Lurgio Middle School, and three elementary schools. The town is known for its high-quality education, with Bedford High School consistently ranking among the top high schools in the state.
🚧 Transportation
Bedford is well-connected by road, with the F.E. Everett Turnpike and Route 101 running through the town, providing easy access to Manchester and other parts of the state. The Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, the fourth-largest passenger and third-largest cargo airport in New England, is located just east of Bedford.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bedford hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Bedford Farmers Market, Summer Concert Series, and the annual Bedford Day. An interesting fact about Bedford is that it was the hometown of Dean Kamen, the inventor of the Segway.