Hollis

The best of small town New England character — historic homes, rolling fields, well-kept orchards, and stately farms – describes the Village of Hollis. A fast-growing community of 6,000 residents, it is located directly west of Nashua, New Hampshire and borders the Massachusetts line. Its convenient access to major highways and the Nashua business hub make it an attractive place to live for professionals, tradespeople, and families alike.

Hollis Always Ready Engine House NHKnown as “Holles” at the time of its charter in 1746, the village was named after the Duke of Newcastle, Thomas Pelham Holles, Secretary of State of the Colonies. Hollis has always been a vibrant agricultural community, known for its corn, strawberries, dairy and poultry farms, and orchards. More than 2,000 acres remain in active agricultural use and the agrarian nature of the village has been supported by the community. Over the years, the town master plan has reflected an unwavering emphasis to preserve open space and carefully manage residential and commercial growth.

A strong interest in preservation is also evidenced by the community support for the Hollis Historic District and the common at Monument Square. More than 100 buildings have been identified as historically significant including the “Always Ready Engine House” and several Georgian and Federal style residences. Due to a conservation-minded community spirit, Hollis’ own backyard is a great recreational resource for the region. Silver Lake offers swimming and the town forest and conservation lands offer equestrian, hiking and cross-country skiing trails that are well maintained. Nearly 2,000 acres in Hollis and neighboring Brookline are owned by Beaver Brook Association, an educational corporation that offers more than 500 natural science programs yearly. It also manages the land and makes it available for hiking, skiing, equestrian activities and more. Hollis is noted for its civic and social volunteerism. The Hollis Historical Society maintains a local museum and promotes frequent educational programs. The Hollis Women’s Club organizes the Hollis Strawberry Festival and the Hollis Apple Festival which draw people from all over the region. The Colonial Garden Club is responsible for much of the civic landscaping which residents and visitors enjoy. Local churches work hand-in-hand with the community to support events and programs of all kinds.

The Hollis Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is active in promoting commemorative, historical, and patriotic events. Many residents are active in town government. Education has been a priority for the residents of Hollis over the years. Hollis has a strong kindergarten program and has recently completed the addition of a new middle school and high school. Parent volunteerism is high in school and extracurricular activities, and the Hollis Recreation Commission is busy year round providing opportunities for the town’s youth.