Settlement of the area that was to become Hancock began along the Contoocook River, in a region known as Society Land or Cumberland, which had been reserved for the proprietors of land that would become New Hampshire. Settled around 1764, the Hancock was initially part of Peterborough, becoming independent in 1779, and named for John Hancock, who was a landowner in the area, the first governor of the state of Massachusetts, president of the Continental Congress, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Nearly every building on Main Street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including Hancock’s Meetinghouse, which contains Paul Revere’s #226 bell, which chime on the hour, day and night. The town does not have paved sidewalks, but gravel paths leading from home to home.
Recommended Resources
First Congregational Church of Hancock
Affiliated with the United Church of Christ, the congregation serves the Hancock, New Hampshire community. Its pastor and church leadership are introduced, a service schedule, church calendar, and announcements are posted to the site.
http://hancocknhchurch.org/
The Hancock, New Hampshire service station offers a variety of automobile services, including AC repairs, tune-ups and diagnostic services, emissions and state inspections, and headlight restorations. Its location and hours of operation are posted.
http://www.fransautobody.com/
Woven from natural materials, the company produces a variety of basket collections, which are highlighted here, along with a current show schedule, contact information, and an online shopping area.
http://www.hancockbaskets.com/
Constructed in 1789, the Hancock Inn has been in continuous operation since. Directions to the guest lodging facility in Hancock, New Hampshire are given, its rooms are highlighted, with rates, and the menus of its dining facilities are published.
http://www.hancockinn.com/
The town’s official website offers general information and a guide to the community, as well as contacts within its administrative and departmental offices, boards, commissions, and committees, tax information, and access to various documents, agendas and minutes, notices, plans, maps, and reports.
http://www.hancocknh.org/
Headquartered in Hancock, New Hampshire, the Mathewson Companies offers septic services, road construction and paving, asphalt maintenance, excavation, and property maintenance. A portfolio of its work, estimates, and contacts are presented.
http://mathewsoncos.com/
Family owned and operated, the small campground is located on a historic 54-acre piece of farm land in Hancock, New Hampshire. General information about the camp and its sites are put forward, including camp activities and recreational opportunities, rates, and special offers.
http://www.sevenmaples.com/
The Betty Pels Run for the Honey
The annual run takes place as part of Old Home Day in Hancock, New Hampshire, now named for Better Pels, who directed the race for several years, along with her family. Dates, times, and a registration form are presented, along with a map of the course.
http://www.hancock5k.com/
