Alan Shepard

Local heritage · Derry, New Hampshire

Illustration of Alan Shepard

Overview

Derry is the hometown of Alan Shepard, the first American in space.

History

Shepard was born in Derry in 1923. He flew into space in 1961 and later walked on the Moon in 1971.

Today

Derry honors him as its most famous native, including his nickname for the town, "Spacetown".

Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.