Peterborough

Peterborough is a town in Hillsborough County that stretches along the Contoocook River at an elevation of 219 meters (718 feet). The community sits surrounded by mountains, with South Pack Monadnock peak rising nearby.

Founded in 1760 and named after Lieutenant Peter Prescott, the settlement faced multiple attacks during the French and Indian War. Eventually about fifty families established themselves permanently and built the community we see today.

The MacDowell Colony welcomes artists for creative residencies, and the Peterborough Players stage theatrical performances in their converted barn from June through September.

The town center sits where U.S. Route 202 and New Hampshire Route 101 intersect, giving easy access to Miller State Park and various antique shops. This location makes it straightforward to explore the area and its offerings.

The first free public library in the United States opened here in 1833 and influenced how states created laws for municipal libraries. This achievement helped shape how communities across the country built their library systems.

Location: Hillsborough County

Inception: 1760

Elevation above the sea: 219 m

Website: http://townofpeterborough.com

GPS coordinates: 42.87056,-71.95167

Latest update: December 15, 2025 05:49