Hillsborough County, New Hampshire
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| Hillsborough County, New Hampshire | |
|---|---|
| County | Hillsborough County |
| State | New Hampshire |
| Founded | 1769 |
| Named for | Wills Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire |
| Seat | Manchester and Nashua |
| Largest city | Manchester |
| Area total sq mi | 892.5 |
| Area land sq mi | 876.1 |
| Area water sq mi | 16.4 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 422,937 |
| Population density sq mi | 482.7 |
| District | 1st |
| District2 | 2nd |
| Time zone | Eastern |
| Ex image | Hillsborough County Courthouse (Manchester, New Hampshire).jpg |
| Ex image cap | The Hillsborough County Courthouse in Manchester |
Hillsborough County, New Hampshire is the most populous county in the U.S. state of New Hampshire. Established in 1769, it was named for Wills Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire, a colonial administrator. The county is home to the state's two largest cities, Manchester and Nashua, which serve as dual county seats. Its diverse landscape ranges from the urbanized Merrimack River valley to the forested hills of the southwestern region.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Pennacook people before European settlement began in the early 18th century. It was one of the five original counties created by the Provincial Congress of New Hampshire in 1769. The county played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution, with Manchester becoming a major textile manufacturing center powered by the Amoskeag Falls on the Merrimack River. Historic events include the New Hampshire Grants disputes and the rise of influential figures like Samuel Blodgett, who championed the Middlesex Canal. The American Civil War saw many residents serve in regiments like the 2nd New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 892.5 square miles, of which 876.1 square miles is land and 16.4 square miles is water. Major waterways include the Merrimack River, the Souhegan River, and the Piscataquog River. The county contains parts of the Wapack Range and is bordered by Merrimack County to the north and Middlesex County in Massachusetts to the south. Notable natural features include Massabesic Lake, a primary water source for Manchester, and Pawtuckaway State Park.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 422,937, making it the most populous county in New Hampshire. The racial makeup was predominantly non-Hispanic white, with growing communities of Hispanic, Asian, and African American residents. The largest ancestry groups include Irish, French, Italian, and English. Major educational institutions influencing demographics include the University of New Hampshire at Manchester and Southern New Hampshire University.
Government and politics
Hillsborough County operates under a commission-administrator form of government, with executive functions performed by an elected Board of County Commissioners. The county is divided between 1st and 2nd congressional districts, represented by Chris Pappas and Ann McLane Kuster, respectively. It is a key political battleground in presidential primaries and general elections, with voters participating in the famed New Hampshire primary. The New Hampshire Supreme Court holds sessions at the Hillsborough County Courthouse in Manchester.
Economy
The economy is diverse, with major sectors including advanced manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and financial services. Key employers are BAE Systems, Southern New Hampshire University, Catholic Medical Center, and Elliot Hospital. The Manchester–Boston Regional Airport serves as a vital transportation and logistics hub. Historically centered on textile mills like the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, the economy has transformed with the growth of the Milky Way tech corridor along the Everett Turnpike.
Communities
The county contains 13 towns and 2 cities. The two major cities are Manchester (the largest city in New Hampshire) and Nashua. Other significant communities include the towns of Bedford, Goffstown, Merrimack, and Hollis. The county also includes several census-designated places like Milford and unincorporated villages such as Francestown. Each municipality operates under the state's unique local government traditions.