Hanover

Introducing Hanover

Hanover is the quintessential New England college town. On warm days, students toss Frisbees on the wide college green fronting Georgian ivy-covered buildings, while locals and academics mingle at the laid-back cafés, restaurants and shops lining Main St. Dartmouth College has long been the town’s focal point, giving the area a vibrant connection to the arts.

Dartmouth was chartered in 1769 primarily ‘for the education and instruction of Youth of the Indian Tribes.’ Back then, the school was located deep in the forests where its prospective students lived. Although teaching ‘English Youth and others’ was only its secondary purpose, in fact Dartmouth College graduated few Native American youths and was soon attended almost exclusively by colonists. The college’s most illustrious alumnus is Daniel Webster (1782–1852), who graduated in 1801 and went on to become a prominent lawyer, US senator, secretary of state and perhaps the USA’s most esteemed orator.

Hanover is part of a larger community which includes Lebanon in New Hampshire, as well as Norwich and White River Junction in Vermont. When looking for services (especially accommodations), consider all of these places, not just Hanover. Unless other­wise stated, items in this section are in Hanover proper.

Each February, Dartmouth celebrates the weeklong Winter Carnival (603-646-3399; www.dartmouth.edu/~sao), featuring special art shows, drama productions, concerts, an ice-sculpture contest and other amusements. It is organized by the Student Activities Office.

Last updated: Jul 22, 2009