Jaffrey Center

Introducing Jaffrey Center

Two miles due west of bigger less-interesting Jaffrey, Jaffrey Center is a tiny, picture-perfect village of serene lanes, 18th-century homes and the dramatic white-steepled meetinghouse. For a fascinating stroll detailing the historical and architectural highlights of the village, pick up a walking-tour brochure at the Jaffrey Chamber of Commerce (603-532-4549; www.jaffreychamber.com; Main St, Jaffrey, cnr NH 124 & NH 202; 10am-4pm Mon-Fri). The old textile mills along the river now house offices and shops. Other intriguing sites include the frozen-in-time Little Red School House and the Melville Academy, which houses a one-room museum of rural artifacts. Both are open from 2pm to 4pm on weekends in summer. For a deeper look at local history, wander the Old Burying Ground behind the meetinghouse. Jaffrey Town Green often hosts free concerts on Wednesday nights in summer. Try to catch the Temple Band, the oldest town band in the country.

Last updated: Oct 3, 2008