Gilsum
Where New Hampshire's rural heart beats strongest among rolling hills and endless forests.
Part of the Keene area
Visit Keene guideAbout Gilsum
Nestled in the rolling hills of southwestern New Hampshire, Gilsum is a quintessential New England town where rural charm meets outdoor adventure. This small community of just over 800 residents embodies the independent spirit that New Hampshire is famous for, with vast stretches of forest land, historic farmsteads, and winding country roads that seem to lead to hidden treasures around every bend. The town's landscape is dominated by working forests and open meadows, creating a patchwork of green that changes dramatically with each season. Gilsum's history dates back to the late 1700s, and its character remains deeply rooted in the land. Many residents live on multi-generational properties, maintaining the agricultural and forestry traditions that have sustained this community for centuries. The town offers an authentic slice of rural New Hampshire life, where neighbors know each other by name, town meetings still matter, and the pace of life allows for appreciation of simple pleasures like a perfect sunset over the western hills or the first signs of maple sugaring season.
Schools & Education
Gilsum is part of the SAU 29 school district.
School District
Part of Keene School District(SAU 29)
Students attend high school in Keene
Quick Facts
Local Businesses
Country Crafts Studio
Local artisan creating handmade pottery and woodworking pieces.
Country Roads Catering
Home-based catering service specializing in traditional New England fare.
Forest Edge Maple
Maple syrup producer offering pure New Hampshire maple products and sugaring demonstrations.
Four Seasons Landscaping
Complete landscaping services including design, installation, and maintenance.
Gilsum Auto Repair
Full-service automotive repair shop specializing in both foreign and domestic vehicles.
Gilsum Excavation
Site preparation and excavation services for residential and commercial projects.
Gilsum Firewood
Seasoned firewood sales with delivery throughout the region.
Gilsum General Store
Classic country store serving the community with groceries, coffee, and local products.
Gilsum Honey Farm
Local apiary producing raw honey and beeswax products from forest wildflowers.
Gilsum Logging Company
Professional logging and forestry services for sustainable timber harvesting.
Gilsum Pet Grooming
Professional pet grooming services in a home-based setting.
Gilsum Rock Products
Local gravel and stone supplier serving construction and landscaping needs.
Heritage Antiques
Antique shop specializing in New England farmhouse and primitive furniture.
Mountain Air Heating
Heating system installation and repair specializing in wood and pellet stoves.
Mountain View Farm
Working farm producing seasonal vegetables and maintaining traditional farming practices.
Pine Hill Farm Stand
Seasonal farm stand offering fresh produce, flowers, and homemade preserves.
Sunrise Yoga Studio
Small yoga studio offering classes in a peaceful rural setting.
Wilderness Guides Service
Professional hunting and fishing guide service with extensive local knowledge.
Explore the Keene Area
See Keene for dining, activities, outdoor recreation, local businesses, and more.
View Keene Guide
