Gilmington, New Hampshire

Gilmington, New Hampshire. Gilmington is a rural town in Rockingham County, situated within the scenic Lakes Region of the state. Incorporated just after the start of the American Revolutionary War, its history is intertwined with early colonial settlement and agricultural development. The community is known for its preserved natural landscapes, including frontage on the western shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and proximity to the Belknap Mountains.

History

The area was originally part of a land grant from the Province of New Hampshire and was first settled by European colonists in the 1760s, primarily from coastal communities like Portsmouth. It was incorporated in 1778, named for one of its early proprietors, during the governorship of Meshech Weare. Early industry centered on subsistence farming, lumber, and the production of potash, with the town sending militiamen to conflicts like the Battle of Bennington. The 19th century saw the rise of small-scale manufacturing, including several gristmills and a tannery powered by local waterways, though Gilmington never developed the industrial character of neighboring towns like Laconia. The arrival of the Boston and Maine Railroad in the late 1800s spurred seasonal tourism, with visitors drawn to its lakeside camps and boarding houses, a trend that continues to shape its modern economy.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 75.0 square kilometers, of which 72.8 square kilometers is land and 2.2 square kilometers is water. Gilmington is located in the foothills of the Belknap Mountains, with its highest point being the summit of Gunstock Mountain, which lies partially within its borders. The primary body of water is its shoreline on Lake Winnipesaukee, specifically along the broad expanse known as Smith Cove. Other significant water features include the headwaters of the Gunstock River and several ponds, such as Locke Lake and Round Pond. The town is traversed by Route 11A and is bordered by the communities of Alton, Gilmanton, and Belmont.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 1,977 people, 812 households, and 587 families residing in the town. The Census Bureau reported a population density of approximately 27.2 persons per square kilometer. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations identifying as Asian and Two or More Races. The median household income was above the state average, reflecting a mix of year-round residents and seasonal property owners. A significant portion of housing units are classified as seasonal, recreational, or occasional use, highlighting Gilmington's role as a vacation destination. The town has experienced gradual population growth since the mid-20th century, consistent with broader trends in the Lakes Region.

Government

Gilmington operates under the town meeting form of government, with an elected Select Board serving as the executive body. The town is part of New Hampshire's 1st congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Chris Pappas. At the state level, Gilmington is within the New Hampshire Senate district represented by Timothy Lang and contributes to the floterial district shared with several neighboring towns. Local services include a volunteer fire department, a public library, and a transfer station, while law enforcement is provided through a contract with the Belknap County Sheriff's Office. The town is a member of the Governor Wentworth Regional School District, which administers public education for the area.

Notable people

Notable individuals associated with Gilmington include Levi Woodbury, a U.S. Supreme Court Justice and Governor of New Hampshire who practiced law in the region during the early 19th century. Frank Jones, a prominent Portsmouth brewer, industrialist, and U.S. Congressman, maintained a summer estate in the town. More recently, John Irving, the acclaimed author of novels like The World According to Garp and The Cider House Rules, has resided in the area. The town was also the longtime home of Ruth Griffin, a former Executive Councilor and influential figure in state Republican politics.

Category:Towns in New Hampshire