Your Kensington Home Painting Experts

Geography and Demographics

Kensington, a rural town in Rockingham County, spans 12 square miles with a population of ~2,100 (2020 census). Bordered by Exeter (north), South Hampton (west), and Amesbury, MA (south), it features rolling farmland, forests, and the Powwow River. The town retains a quiet, agrarian charm with proximity to the Seacoast’s amenities.

Historical Background

Settled in 1737 and incorporated in 1764, Kensington split from Hampton to establish independent governance. Its colonial economy centered on farming and lumber, with historic homes like the 1750 Blaisdell House and 1835 Kensington Town Hall reflecting its early New England character. The town avoided industrialization, preserving its rural identity.

Government

Kensington operates under a town meeting system with a three-member selectboard. Recent initiatives include open-space conservation, broadband expansion, and upgrades to the Kensington Public Library. The town collaborates regionally on emergency services and environmental stewardship.

Economy

Primarily residential, many residents commute to Exeter, Portsmouth, or Boston. Local businesses include family farms (e.g., Brown’s Corner Farmstand), home-based artisans, and the Kensington General Store, a community staple since the 1800s. Agri-tourism thrives at seasonal farm stands and maple sugaring operations.

Culture and Community

The town fosters camaraderie through events like Old Home Day, Kensington Agricultural Fair, and holiday gatherings at the Town Hall. The Kensington Historical Society preserves landmarks, while volunteer groups maintain trails and the Powwow River Conservation Area.

Education

Part of School Administrative Unit (SAU) 16, students attend Kensington Elementary School (K–5) before transitioning to Exeter’s regional middle and high schools. Programs emphasize environmental science and civic engagement, tied to the town’s rural landscape.

Landmarks and Recreation

- Powwow River: Offers fishing and kayaking near scenic woodlands.

- Kensington Town Forest: Trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and wildlife observation.

- Historic District: Includes the Town Hall, Union Chapel (1832), and colonial-era homes.

- Brown’s Corner Farmstand: A seasonal hub for local produce and crafts.

Modern Development

Kensington prioritizes rural preservation, limiting commercial growth while supporting renewable energy projects like solar farms. Recent efforts include restoring historic buildings and expanding recreational infrastructure.

Transportation

Route 150 connects to Exeter (10 minutes north) and Amesbury, MA (10 minutes south). Portsmouth is 25 minutes east via Route 101, and Boston is 50 miles south via I-95.

Tourism and Proximity

Though low-key, Kensington attracts visitors seeking pastoral tranquility, farm-fresh goods, and historic architecture. It’s 15 minutes from Exeter’s cultural sites and 30 minutes from Hampton Beach.

Notable Trivia

- Home to New Hampshire’s oldest continuously operating general store (Kensington General Store, est. 1810).

- The Powwow River derives its name from the Algonquian term for “meeting place.”

- The 1832 Union Chapel still hosts community events and weddings.

Kensington epitomizes timeless New England simplicity, where farmland, history, and neighborly spirit endure. Its commitment to preservation and rural values offers a serene counterpoint to the Seacoast’s coastal bustle.