📍 Location & Geography
Franklin is a city located in Merrimack County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee rivers, forming the Merrimack River. The city is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, and is surrounded by rolling hills and forests.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Franklin, New Hampshire, are approximately 43.4443° N latitude and 71.6473° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Franklin is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It covers an area of approximately 29.1 square miles, of which 1.0 square mile is water, and the rest is land.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Franklin was approximately 8,492. The city is diverse in age, with a median age of 38.6 years. The population is roughly split between males and females. The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.
🏛️ History
Franklin was first settled by Europeans in 1764 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1820. It was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin. In 1895, Franklin was incorporated as a city. The city has a rich industrial history, with mills powered by the Merrimack River playing a significant role in the local economy during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Franklin is known for its beautiful natural environment. The city is surrounded by forests and hills, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Odell Park, Trestle View Park, and Franklin Falls Dam, a popular spot for picnicking and bird watching.
🏫 Education
Education in Franklin is managed by the Franklin School District. The city has several public schools, including Paul Smith Elementary School, Franklin Middle School, and Franklin High School. For higher education, residents have access to the nearby Lakes Region Community College and New Hampshire Technical Institute.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Franklin is primarily by road, with New Hampshire Route 3A, New Hampshire Route 11, and Interstate 93 serving the city. The Concord Coach Lines provides bus service to other parts of New Hampshire and Boston. The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 45 miles south of the city.
📜 Trivia & Events
Franklin is known as the “Three Rivers City” due to its location at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee rivers, which form the Merrimack River. The city hosts several annual events, including the Franklin Outing Club’s Winter Carnival and the Blackwater Dam Release, a popular event for kayaking and white-water rafting enthusiasts.