📍 Location & Geography
Chesterfield is a town located in Cheshire County, in the southwestern part of New Hampshire, United States. It is bordered by the town of Westmoreland to the north, Keene and Swanzey to the east, Winchester and Hinsdale to the south, and Brattleboro, Vermont to the west. The town covers a total area of 49.8 square miles, of which 48.7 square miles is land and 1.1 square miles is water. The Connecticut River forms the western boundary of Chesterfield.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Chesterfield, New Hampshire are approximately 42.8984° N latitude and 72.4632° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Chesterfield is part of the Monadnock Region, named after Mount Monadnock, which is located in the region but not within the town itself. The town is part of the Keene, NH-VT Micropolitan Statistical Area. The town’s area is characterized by rolling hills, open fields, forests, and water bodies, including the Connecticut River and Spofford Lake.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Chesterfield has a population of approximately 3,604 residents. The town’s population is predominantly white, with a small percentage of residents identifying as African American, Asian, Hispanic or Latino, and other races. The median age in Chesterfield is around 45 years.
🏛️ History
Chesterfield was first settled in 1761 by a group of settlers from Massachusetts. The town was incorporated by Colonial Governor John Wentworth in 1771. The town was named after Philip Stanhope, the 4th Earl of Chesterfield, a statesman known for his wit and style. Chesterfield has a rich history, with several historic buildings and sites, including the Chesterfield Academy, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Chesterfield is home to a number of natural attractions. The town boasts two state parks: Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area, which offers hiking trails and views of a deep gorge, and Pisgah State Park, the largest state park in New Hampshire. The town also includes part of Wantastiquet Mountain State Forest. Spofford Lake is a significant water body in the town, known for its clear water and recreational opportunities.
🏫 Education
Education in Chesterfield is managed by the Chesterfield School District. The town has one elementary school, Chesterfield School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Keene High School in the neighboring city of Keene. Chesterfield also has a public library, the Chesterfield Public Library.
🚧 Transportation
Chesterfield is served by New Hampshire Route 9 and New Hampshire Route 63. The town does not have its own public transit system, but the neighboring city of Keene operates a public bus service. The nearest airport is Dillant-Hopkins Airport in Keene.
📜 Trivia & Events
Chesterfield is known for its annual events, including the Chesterfield Gorge Ultra Race, a running race through the scenic Chesterfield Gorge. The town also hosts an annual 4th of July parade and fireworks display. A notable point of interest in Chesterfield is the site of the former Madame Sherri’s Castle, the ruins of a once grand estate now part of the Madame Sherri Forest.