📍 Location & Geography
Enfield is a charming town located in the Grafton County of New Hampshire, United States. It is nestled in the heart of the Upper Valley region, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Connecticut River and Mascoma Lake. The town covers a total area of 43.1 square miles, of which 41.4 square miles is land and 1.7 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Enfield, New Hampshire are approximately 43°38′45″N latitude and 72°8′51″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Enfield is part of the Lebanon, NH-VT Micropolitan Statistical Area. The town is situated in the western part of New Hampshire and is bordered by Lebanon and Canaan. The town’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine bodies of water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Enfield has a population of approximately 4,582 residents. The town’s population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic, Asian, African American, and other races. The median age of residents in Enfield is around 45 years.
🏛️ History
Enfield was first settled in 1761 by settlers from Connecticut. It was incorporated in 1761 and named after Enfield, Connecticut. The town played a significant role in the Shaker religious movement, with the Enfield Shaker village serving as one of the largest Shaker communities in the United States during the 19th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Enfield is home to a variety of natural attractions. The town is located on the eastern shore of Mascoma Lake, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The Northern Rail Trail, a 58-mile trail that runs through Enfield, offers opportunities for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The town also has several parks and conservation areas, including the Huse Park and the Enfield Wildlife Management Area.
🏫 Education
Enfield is served by the Mascoma Valley Regional School District. The town has one elementary school, Enfield Village School, and students attend Indian River School for middle school and Mascoma Valley Regional High School for high school. The town is also in proximity to several higher education institutions, including Dartmouth College.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Enfield is primarily by car, with New Hampshire Route 4 and Interstate 89 serving as the main highways. The town is also served by the Advance Transit bus system, providing free service to nearby towns. The nearest airport is Lebanon Municipal Airport, located approximately 10 miles from Enfield.
📜 Trivia & Events
Enfield hosts several community events throughout the year, including the traditional Fourth of July Celebration and the Enfield Shaker Museum’s Harvest Festival. The town is also known for the Enfield Shaker Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This district includes the Great Stone Dwelling, the largest Shaker building ever constructed, and nine other Shaker buildings.