Gilford, New Hampshire is a small town located in the Lakes Region of the state. It is situated on the south shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and is one of the most popular vacation destinations in New Hampshire. Gilford has a total area of 24.2 square miles, with 19.8 square miles being land and 4.4 square miles being water.
The town has a diverse topography that includes hills, valleys, streams, and lakes that are all part of what makes Gilford such an attractive place to visit and live. Much of Gilford’s terrain is covered in forestland, giving it a lush and green landscape that is perfect for outdoor recreation or simply enjoying nature’s beauty.
The town also has several bodies of water, including Lake Winnipesaukee which makes up nearly half of its total area. This lake is home to many species of fish and other aquatic life making it an ideal spot for fishing or simply admiring nature’s beauty. In addition to Lake Winnipesaukee, there are also several smaller ponds located throughout Gilford such as Crystal Lake and Round Pond which are great places for swimming or boating activities during the warmer months of summertime.
Gilford also has several trails for hikers to explore as well as plenty of roadways that connect it to neighboring towns and cities in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region like Laconia, Meredith, Wolfeboro, and Alton Bay. With its natural beauty combined with its close proximity to nearby attractions like Gunstock Mountain Resort or Weirs Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee make Gilford an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience all that New Hampshire has to offer.
History of Gilford, New Hampshire
According to topschoolsintheusa.com, Gilford, New Hampshire is a small town located in the Lakes Region of the state. It has a long and storied history that dates back to the late 17th century when it was first settled by Europeans. The town was originally known as Gunstock Parish and was part of Laconia before becoming its own separate township in 1727.
In the early days, Gilford’s economy relied heavily on farming and lumbering as well as other trades like blacksmithing and shoemaking. During the American Revolution, Gilford residents were active participants in the conflict, with many of them serving in the Continental Army or providing supplies to those who did.
In 1818, The Gilford Manufacturing Company was established which helped to diversify the town’s economy by producing cloth for use in clothing and other textiles. This company eventually grew to become one of New England’s largest textile producers and brought much needed jobs to the area.
The arrival of railroads during the mid-19th century also had a major impact on Gilford as it helped spur growth in tourism and recreation due to its proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee which is now one of New Hampshire’s most popular vacation destinations. In addition, many notable figures have called Gilford home over the years including Ulysses S Grant Jr., who served as Governor of New York from 1885-1887, as well as former United States Senator George Mitchell who represented Maine from 1980-1995.
Today, Gilford is still a vibrant small town with a population of just over 5,000 people. It is home to several businesses that cater to both tourists and locals alike while still maintaining its rural character that makes it such an attractive place to visit or live for those looking for a taste of rural New England life.
Economy of Gilford, New Hampshire
The economy of Gilford, New Hampshire is primarily based on tourism and recreation due to its proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee, which is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the state. The town has a variety of different businesses that cater to both tourists and locals alike, ranging from restaurants and shops to boat charters and other recreational activities.
In addition, Gilford is home to several manufacturing companies that employ many local residents. The Gilford Manufacturing Company, established in 1818, is one of the town’s oldest businesses and produces cloth for use in clothing and other textiles. There are also several smaller companies that specialize in woodworking or metal fabrication.
Agriculture also plays an important role in the local economy as there are many farms located throughout the area. These farms produce a variety of crops including apples, hay, corn, pumpkins, potatoes, strawberries and more.
Finally, Gilford is home to several educational institutions including a community college as well as elementary schools and high schools. These schools provide opportunities for students of all ages to receive quality education while also helping to boost the local economy by providing employment opportunities for teachers and staff members.
Overall, Gilford’s economy is diverse and vibrant with something for everyone whether they are looking for work or just looking for a place to relax and enjoy all that New Hampshire has to offer.
Politics in Gilford, New Hampshire
The politics of Gilford, New Hampshire are largely influenced by the state as a whole and its values. The town is represented in the state legislature by Republican Representative Sam Cataldo and Democratic Senator Martha Fuller Clark. Gilford is also represented in the US House of Representatives by Republican Chris Pappas.
At the local level, Gilford has a town council that consists of five members who are elected every two years. This council meets regularly to discuss and vote on matters of importance to the town such as budgets, ordinances, and other issues related to its development.
The local government also has several committees that are made up of citizens from all walks of life. These committees have an important role in helping to shape the future of Gilford by offering input on various issues such as land use planning, economic development, public safety, and more.
In addition to its elected officials, Gilford also has several volunteer organizations that help to support the community in various ways. These include things like youth programs, food pantries, charities for seniors or veterans, and more.
Overall, politics in Gilford are largely reflective of those on a larger scale throughout New Hampshire with an emphasis on fiscal responsibility and personal freedoms while still maintaining a sense of community spirit and pride among its residents.
