Litchfield, New Hampshire

Litchfield, a suburban community of over 8,000 residents situated on the Merrimack River between Nashua and Manchester, has experienced tremendous growth in the past 30 years but is trying to sustain its rural, agricultural character. With a population increase of over 80% since the early 1980s, Litchfield has become a popular bedroom community because of its access to the larger cities of southern New Hampshire and its wealth of undeveloped farmland.

Litchfield is still known for its produce, and its agricultural history is apparent in the number of working farms that offer pick-your-own fruits and farm stands in season. The town is currently home to 5 large farms, including Nesenkeag Cooperative Farm, New Hampshire’s largest certified organic farm. Litchfield was founded as a small community known as Naticook until 1729 when it was renamed Brenton's Farm; it was finally incorporated as Litchfield in 1749. Litchfield saw some growth when it became the opposite landing-site of Thornton's Ferry which crossed the Merrimack River from the town of Merrimack. However, not until recently did expanding population pressures in southern New Hampshire drastically change Litchfield’s residential landscape. The town now offers a wide variety of housing options, including new construction, single-family homes, condominium developments, and retirement communities.

Litchfield residents enjoy the cultural, dining, and shopping opportunities afforded by their proximity to Manchester and Nashua. In town, Litchfield sponsors a yearly fishing derby, sustains several wildlife and nature preserves, and maintains extensive bike, snowmobile, and cross-country skiing trails. The town continues to develop park areas that currently provide beach access and a skate park. Youth sports leagues include baseball, soccer, and basketball.

Litchfield School District has expanded to accommodate population growth. The town built a new high school in 2000, and planning for a new elementary school is underway. At present, one elementary school serves about 600 students grades 1-4 and also houses a preschool program, one middle school serves nearly 600 students grades 5-8, and the high school serves just over 550 students. Also in town are a private Christian School serving over 200 students grades K-12 and a small private Catholic elementary school.

Sources:

http://www.litchfield.mv.com/

http://www.litchfieldsd.org/home.php

http://www.nhes.state.nh.us/elmi/htmlprofiles/litchfield.html

http://www4.measuredprogress.org/NHProfile/SchEnroll.cfm