📍 Location & Geography
Orford is a picturesque town situated in Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States. It lies on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River, which forms the boundary between New Hampshire and Vermont. The town is characterized by a mix of rolling farmland, forested areas, and the beautiful riverfront.
🌎 Coordinates
Orford is geographically located at 43.9042° N latitude and 72.1408° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Orford is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It covers a total area of 48.0 square miles, of which 46.1 square miles is land and 1.9 square miles is water, according to the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, Orford had a population of 1,237 people. The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races. The median age in the town is around 45 years.
🏛️ History
Orford was first chartered by Governor Benning Wentworth in 1761. It was named after Robert Walpole, Earl of Orford, who was the first Prime Minister of Great Britain. The town was primarily an agricultural community, with farming being the main occupation of its early settlers. Over time, Orford has maintained its rural charm while developing into a residential community.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Orford is home to a variety of natural attractions. The Connecticut River provides opportunities for boating and fishing, while the town’s forests and fields are ideal for hiking and bird watching. Orford also has several hills, including Mount Cube and Sunday Mountain, which are part of the Appalachian Trail. The town is committed to preserving its natural beauty and has several conservation areas.
🏫 Education
Education in Orford is administered by the Rivendell Interstate School District, which also serves other towns in New Hampshire and Vermont. The town has one elementary school, the Samuel Morey Elementary School. For secondary education, students attend the Rivendell Academy.
🚧 Transportation
Orford is accessible by New Hampshire Route 10, which runs north-south through the town. The nearest commercial airports are Lebanon Municipal Airport in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and Burlington International Airport in Burlington, Vermont.
📜 Trivia & Events
Orford is known for its historic row houses, also known as the Ridge Houses, which are one of the finest examples of early 19th-century residential architecture in New Hampshire. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Orford Flea Market, the Orford Social Library Summer Book Sale, and the annual Orford-Fairlee Fourth of July Parade.