📍 Location & Geography
Exeter is a town located in Rockingham County, in the southeastern part of the state of New Hampshire, United States. It is situated along the Exeter River, approximately 50 miles north of Boston and 13 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean. The town encompasses a total area of 20.0 square miles, of which 19.6 square miles is land and 0.4 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Exeter, New Hampshire, are approximately 42.98° North latitude and 70.95° West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Exeter is a part of the New England region of the United States. It is located in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire, which is known for its beautiful coastline and rich history. The town is part of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Exeter is approximately 14,306. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 43.6 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly white, with minorities of Asian, African American, and other races.
🏛️ History
Exeter was founded in 1638 by Reverend John Wheelwright, an English clergyman banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The town was named after the historic city of Exeter in Devon, England. It served as the Revolutionary War capital of New Hampshire and was the location where the state’s constitution was drafted in 1787. The town’s rich history is preserved in several historic sites, including the American Independence Museum.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Exeter is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Oaklands Town Forest and the Henderson-Swasey Town Forest. The Exeter River provides opportunities for fishing and boating, while the town’s trails are popular for hiking and biking.
🏫 Education
Exeter is served by the Exeter Region Cooperative School District, which includes elementary, middle, and high schools. The town is also home to the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy, a coeducational independent school for boarding and day students in grades 9 through 12.
🚧 Transportation
Exeter is accessible via Interstate 95 and New Hampshire Route 101. The town is also served by Amtrak’s Downeaster train service, which provides daily passenger service between Boston and Brunswick, Maine. The nearest airport is the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 35 miles to the west.
📜 Trivia & Events
Exeter is known for its annual American Independence Festival, which celebrates the town’s role in the American Revolution. The event features a reading of the Declaration of Independence, historical reenactments, and a fireworks display. The town also hosts the annual UFO Festival, commemorating the famous “Incident at Exeter” UFO sighting in 1965.