Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
Journey back in time to Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Hancock, New Hampshire, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Hancock
Hancock started as an unidentified settlement on the Contoocook River, in lands known as "Society Land" or "Cumberland", which had been reserved for the proprietors of the lands which became New Hampshire. First settled in 1764, the town was set off from Peterborough and incorporated in 1779, named "Hancock" in honor of John Hancock. A landowner of 1,875 acres (8 km2) in the community, Hancock was the first governor of the state of Massachusetts, president of the Continental Congress, and signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Source
Have family roots in Hancock?Add your family to this place
MAP
Use the map to explore this place and its surroundings.
VINTAGE HANCOCK
Hancock Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
Postcard
Main Street looking West, Hancock, N.H., 1905
Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
Postcard
Bennington Street
Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
Postcard
School House
Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
Postcard
Street view in Hancock, N.H.
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to HANCOCK
I Love NEW HAMPSHIRE Mug – Apple Cider Donuts, Pumpkins & Maple Syrup Coffee Cup
Celebrate cozy New Hampshire autumns with every sip! The I Love New Hampshire Mug features charming illustrations of Apple Cider Donuts, Pumpkins, and Maple Syrup, capturing the essence of fall in the Granite State.
NEW HAMPSHIRE - Arrival of Trains at Base of Mt. Washington, NH – Postcard Ceramic Mug
Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Arrival of Trains at the base of Mt. Washington, NH, captured in exquisite detail as featured in a postcard from over 100 years ago!
NEW HAMPSHIRE - Mt. Washington Aluminum Bookmark – "Climb High, Stay on Track" with Historic Postcard Images
Mark your place in style with this Mt. Washington aluminum bookmark, featuring stunning images from vintage postcards and the inspirational slogan: "Climb High, Stay on Track – Mt. Washington, NH." A perfect keepsake for book lovers, history buffs, and White Mountains enthusiasts, this durable and lightweight bookmark captures the charm and adventure of New Hampshire’s most iconic peak.
NEW HAMPSHIRE - Mt. Washington Coffee Mug - Historic Postcard Images of Mt. Washington & Cog Railway
Climb to the Clouds - Mt. Washington & the Historic Cog Railway! Sip your favorite brew while enjoying a nostalgic journey through the White Mountains with this ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcard images of Mt. Washington, NH, and the legendary Mt. Washington Cog Railway.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Hancock: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Hancock through the years.
1839 - Hancock
Hancock, New Hampshire
Hillsborough county. It is 35 miles from Concord, 22 from Amherst, and 19 from Keene. The W. part of the town is mountainous, but affords excellent pasturing and many good farms. The other parts of the town are agreeably diversified with plains, hills, and valleys. On the Contoocook, and some of its tributary streams, there are several tracts of excellent intervale. There are two considerable ponds, one of which is in the centre, a few rods N. of the meeting-house. There is a cotton factory, a paper mill, and several other manufacturing establishments here; also a flourishing academy. Hancock was incorporated Nov. 5, 1779. It was named after Gov. Hancock, of Boston, who was one of the original proprietors. The first settlement was begun in 1764. Population, 1830, 1,316.
Hillsborough county. It is 35 miles from Concord, 22 from Amherst, and 19 from Keene. The W. part of the town is mountainous, but affords excellent pasturing and many good farms. The other parts of the town are agreeably diversified with plains, hills, and valleys. On the Contoocook, and some of its tributary streams, there are several tracts of excellent intervale. There are two considerable ponds, one of which is in the centre, a few rods N. of the meeting-house. There is a cotton factory, a paper mill, and several other manufacturing establishments here; also a flourishing academy. Hancock was incorporated Nov. 5, 1779. It was named after Gov. Hancock, of Boston, who was one of the original proprietors. The first settlement was begun in 1764. Population, 1830, 1,316.
1854 - Hancock
HANCOCK, a post - township of Hillsborough county, New Hampshire, 30 miles S. S. W. from Concord. Population, 1012.
1895 - Hancock
Hancock, a post - village of Hillsborough co., N.H., in Hancock township, about 28 miles W. of Manchester. It has a church and a high school. Pop. of the township, 637.
Here are some places to go and things to do in Hancock, New Hampshire:
Hancock Village: Start your visit by exploring the picturesque Hancock Village. This historic New England village features well-preserved Federal and Colonial-style architecture, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities.
Hancock Historical Society Museum: Located in the heart of the village, this museum offers a glimpse into the town's rich history. It houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of Hancock's past.
Harris Center for Conservation Education: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Harris Center, which offers a range of programs and activities related to wildlife and conservation. They have several well-maintained trails for hiking and birdwatching.
Nubanusit Lake: This serene lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. There's a public beach area where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Hancock Town Library: If you're a book lover, don't miss the Hancock...
Read more
Hancock Historical Society Museum: Located in the heart of the village, this museum offers a glimpse into the town's rich history. It houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of Hancock's past.
Harris Center for Conservation Education: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Harris Center, which offers a range of programs and activities related to wildlife and conservation. They have several well-maintained trails for hiking and birdwatching.
Nubanusit Lake: This serene lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. There's a public beach area where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Hancock Town Library: If you're a book lover, don't miss the Hancock...
GENEALOGY IN HANCOCK
Discover YOUR Roots: Hancock Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Hancock through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Hancock, New Hampshire, USA
We currently have information about 7 ancestors who were born or died in Hancock.
View ancestors by year of birthCONTINUE YOUR RESEARCH
Search Hancock Genealogy
Search by place or by ancestor name to keep exploring families connected to Hancock.
SEARCH BY PLACE
Find Family by Place
Not the place you were looking for? Start another place search and choose a location from the suggestions.
SEARCH BY ANCESTOR
Find Family by Name
You can enter part of a name if you are unsure of the full name or exact spelling.
Updated: 1/17/2025 5:11:19 PM
COMMUNITY
Discussion & Local Contributions
Share corrections, memories, local history, or family connections that may help other researchers.