📍 Location & Geography
Contoocook is a charming village nestled in the town of Hopkinton, in Merrimack County, New Hampshire, United States. The village is situated in the south-central part of the state, near the Contoocook River. This river, which shares its name with the village, offers a scenic backdrop and contributes to the village’s overall charm.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Contoocook are approximately 43.22° N latitude and 71.72° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Contoocook is located in the New England region of the United States. It is part of the larger town of Hopkinton, which covers a total area of 68 square miles, with 1.3 square miles being water. The village itself is a small, close-knit community within this area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As Contoocook is a part of Hopkinton, it shares its population count with the town. As of the 2010 census, Hopkinton, and by extension Contoocook, had a population of approximately 5,589 residents. The demographic makeup of the town is predominantly Caucasian, with small percentages of African American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Contoocook has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The village was originally a part of Hopkinton, which was established in 1765. The name “Contoocook” is believed to be derived from the Pennacook tribe’s word meaning “place of the river near pines.” It has a well-preserved historical district with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Contoocook Railroad Depot and the Contoocook Railroad Bridge.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
The village of Contoocook is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Contoocook River being a significant feature. The river is popular for canoeing and kayaking. The village is also in proximity to several parks and forests, including the nearby Hopkinton-Everett Lakes area, which offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
🏫 Education
Education in Contoocook is managed by the Hopkinton School District. The village is home to the Hopkinton Middle High School and the Harold Martin School, which serves students from preschool to third grade. The Maple Street School, serving grades four through six, is also located nearby.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Contoocook is primarily by road, with New Hampshire Route 103 passing through the village, connecting it to other parts of the state. The closest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located approximately 35 miles to the southeast.
📜 Trivia & Events
Contoocook hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Hopkinton State Fair, which is held annually on Labor Day weekend. The fair features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment. Additionally, the village’s railroad depot and bridge are considered to be among the oldest surviving railroad structures of their type in the United States.