📍 Location & Geography
Hillsborough, also known as Hillsboro, is a town located in the southern part of New Hampshire, in Hillsborough County. The town is nestled in the Monadnock Region of the state and is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, forested areas, and bodies of water, including the Contoocook River which runs through the town.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Hillsborough, New Hampshire are approximately 43.1134° N latitude and 71.8992° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hillsborough is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town spans a total area of approximately 44.6 square miles, of which 43.1 square miles is land and 1.5 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Hillsborough has a population of approximately 6,011 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of about 39 years. The population is predominantly white, making up about 97% of the total population, with the remaining 3% made up of various other ethnicities.
🏛️ History
Hillsborough was first chartered by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth in 1748 and was originally known as “Number Seven.” The town was later renamed Hillsborough in 1772, in honor of Wills Hill, the Earl of Hillsborough who was the British Secretary of State for the Colonies. Hillsborough played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, with the town serving as a rallying point for the local militia.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hillsborough boasts a rich natural environment, with a variety of flora and fauna. The town is home to Fox State Forest, which offers over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The Contoocook River and several smaller bodies of water provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-related activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Hillsborough is managed by the Hillsboro-Deering Cooperative School District. The district operates three schools: Hillsboro-Deering Elementary School, Hillsboro-Deering Middle School, and Hillsboro-Deering High School. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including New England College and Franklin Pierce University.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Hillsborough is primarily by road, with New Hampshire Route 9 and New Hampshire Route 202 serving as the main highways through the town. The town is also served by the Concord Coach Lines bus service, which provides connections to other cities in New Hampshire and beyond. The nearest airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 40 miles to the southeast.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hillsborough is known for its annual “Living History Event,” a weekend-long event that takes place in September and features reenactments, historical demonstrations, and other activities that celebrate the town’s rich history. The town is also the birthplace of the 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce, and his homestead is now a historic site open to the public.