📍 Location & Geography
Milford, New Hampshire is a small town located in the southern part of the state, within Hillsborough County. It is nestled between the Souhegan River and the Osgood Pond, with the surrounding landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and a number of small bodies of water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Milford are approximately 42.8354° N latitude and 71.6480° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Milford is part of the New England region, specifically in the southern part of New Hampshire. The town covers a total area of about 25.3 square miles, of which 24.6 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Milford has a population of approximately 15,600 residents. The demographic makeup of the town is predominantly white, with smaller percentages of African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races. The median age of residents is around 40 years, with a fairly even distribution of males and females.
🏛️ History
Milford was first settled in the 18th century and was originally a part of neighboring Amherst. It was incorporated as a separate town in 1794, and was named Milford in honor of its mill-ford, the crossing of the Souhegan River. The town quickly became a center for the granite industry, with its quarries producing a unique pink-hued granite that was used in construction projects around the country.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Milford is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The town is home to several parks and conservation areas, including the Mile Slip Town Forest and the Tucker Brook Town Forest. The Souhegan River provides opportunities for fishing and boating, while the numerous hiking trails offer stunning views of the New England landscape. The town is also committed to environmental preservation, with various initiatives aimed at protecting its natural resources.
🏫 Education
Education in Milford is overseen by the Milford School District, which operates several schools in the town. This includes Milford High School, Milford Middle School, and two elementary schools. The town also has a public library, the Wadleigh Memorial Library, which offers a variety of resources and programs for residents of all ages.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Milford is primarily by road, with New Hampshire Route 101 and New Hampshire Route 13 serving as the town’s main thoroughfares. The nearest airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located about 20 miles to the east. Public transportation is provided by the Nashua Transit System, which operates a bus route that serves Milford.
📜 Trivia & Events
Milford is known for its annual Pumpkin Festival, which takes place in October and attracts visitors from across the region. The festival features a variety of events, including a pumpkin-carving contest, a parade, live music, and more. The town is also home to the Milford Oval, a historic district featuring a number of well-preserved 19th-century buildings.