📍 Location & Geography
Hooksett is a town located in Merrimack County, in the southern part of the state of New Hampshire, United States. The town is situated along the Merrimack River, which runs north-south through the town and serves as a significant geographical feature. The town covers a total area of 37.5 square miles, of which 36.4 square miles is land and 1.0 square mile is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Hooksett are approximately 43.0962 degrees north latitude and 71.4656 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hooksett is part of the Merrimack County in New Hampshire. It is situated in the southern part of the state and is part of the Manchester-Nashua metropolitan area, the most populous area in northern New England. The town is surrounded by several other towns including Manchester to the south, Pembroke and Allenstown to the north, and Candia and Auburn to the east.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the United States Census Bureau, as of 2019, the estimated population of Hooksett was 14,428. The town has a diverse age range, with about 23% of the population under the age of 18, and about 16% aged 65 years and over. The gender makeup of the town is approximately 49% male and 51% female.
🏛️ History
Hooksett was originally part of Chester and was known as “Chester Woods”, “Chester West”, and later “Island”. It was incorporated as a separate town in 1822, named after the Hooksett falls on the Merrimack River, where there was a large settlement of Penacook Indians. The town was home to the largest textile rope factory in the world, the Suncook Mills, in the late 19th and early 20th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Hooksett is known for its natural beauty, with the Merrimack River being a significant feature. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Hooksett Riverwalk Trail and the Heads Pond Trail. The town also has several bodies of water, including Tower Hill Pond and Heads Pond.
🏫 Education
Hooksett is served by the Hooksett School District, which includes three schools: Fred C. Underhill School, Hooksett Memorial School, and David R. Cawley Middle School. High school students attend either Pinkerton Academy in Derry or one of three Manchester high schools. Higher education opportunities are available nearby, with Southern New Hampshire University located just south of the town.
🚧 Transportation
Hooksett is conveniently located near several major highways, including Interstate 93, which runs north-south through the town, and New Hampshire Route 3. The town is also served by the Manchester Transit Authority bus service, which provides transportation to Manchester and surrounding areas.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hooksett is home to Robie’s Country Store, a historic general store and Hooksett landmark that has been visited by many politicians during the New Hampshire primary. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Hooksett Old Home Day, a community celebration featuring food, music, and fireworks.