📍 Location & Geography
Derry is a town situated in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, United States. It is nestled in the southeastern part of the state and is approximately 39 miles north of Boston, Massachusetts. The town covers a total area of 36.5 square miles, of which 35.6 square miles is land and 0.9 square miles is water. Beaver Lake, Big Island Pond, and Hood Pond are some of the major bodies of water in Derry.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Derry, New Hampshire are approximately 42.8806° N latitude and 71.3273° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Derry is part of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is the fourth most populous community in the state, despite being officially designated as a town, not a city. The town is divided into several villages including Derry Village, East Derry, and North Derry.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Derry has a population of approximately 34,000 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 38.8 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with significant representation from Hispanic, Asian, and African American communities.
🏛️ History
Derry was first settled by Scottish-Irish families in 1719 and was incorporated as a town in 1827. It was originally part of Londonderry, named after the city of Londonderry in Ireland. Derry is known for its rich history, including being the birthplace of astronaut Alan Shepard, the first American to travel to space. The town also holds historical significance as the home of poet Robert Frost, whose farm is now a National Historic Landmark.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Derry is home to a variety of parks and nature trails, including the Derry Rail Trail, a popular spot for walking, biking, and horseback riding. The town is also home to the Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site, which includes beautiful walking paths. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its numerous conservation areas.
🏫 Education
Education in Derry is administered by the Derry Cooperative School District, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools. The town is also home to Pinkerton Academy, a private secondary school that serves as the public high school for Derry and several surrounding towns. Higher education opportunities can be found nearby, with the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University within commuting distance.
🚧 Transportation
Derry is served by several major roads, including Interstate 93 and New Hampshire Routes 28 and 102. The Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located just 12 miles away, provides air travel options. Public transportation is provided by the Cooperative Alliance for Regional Transportation (CART), which offers bus service throughout the town and to nearby communities.
📜 Trivia & Events
Derry hosts a number of annual events, including Derryfest, a community celebration held every September. The town is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with the Derry Opera House serving as a venue for concerts, plays, and other performances. Trivia enthusiasts might be interested to know that Derry is often referred to as “Space Town” in honor of its connection to astronaut Alan Shepard.