Despite living a simple and unassuming life, Holt had a secret: he was a multimillionaire. After his death earlier this year, it was revealed that Holt had left his entire fortune, totaling $3.8 million, to the town of Hinsdale, where he had lived for many years.

Holt's lifestyle was modest, with threadbare clothes and a mobile home that was mostly empty of furniture. He had given up driving a car and instead opted for a bicycle and a lawn mower. Residents would often see him riding his mower around town or parked along the main road, reading a newspaper or watching cars pass by.

Known for doing odd jobs for others, Holt rarely left town and seemed content with his simple life. His best friend, Edwin “Smokey” Smith, described him as someone who seemed to have what he wanted but didn't want much.

However, Holt's will revealed his true wealth and his desire to give back to the community that he called home. The $3.8 million was to benefit the town of Hinsdale in the areas of education, health, recreation, and culture. The money could greatly impact this small Connecticut River town, which is known for its abundant outdoor activities and historic landmarks.

Since the announcement of the donation, residents of Hinsdale have been discussing ideas for how to best use the funds. Suggestions have included upgrading the town hall clock, restoring buildings, and even setting up an online driver's education course. Organizations will be able to apply for grants through the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation via a trust set up by Holt, with approximately $150,000 available annually.

Hinsdale's town administrator, Kathryn Lynch, has emphasized that the money will be used frugally, just as Holt lived his life. She expressed gratitude for the generous gift and assured that the town would make the most of it.

Holt's best friend and executor of his estate, Smith, had known about Holt's fortune for a few years before his death. He recalled Holt's varied interests, such as collecting model cars and train sets, as well as his love for history and music. Holt's investments had performed better than he expected, and he confided in Smith about not knowing what to do with the money. It was Smith who suggested leaving it to the town.

Holt's sister, Alison Holt, spoke of their upbringing and their parents' values of frugality and not wasting money. She mentioned that Geoffrey had a learning disability but was incredibly smart in certain ways. She believes that his accumulation of wealth may have been a way to compete with their father's expectations.

Geoffrey and Alison grew up in a family of educators and peace activists. Their father taught English and world literature, while their mother was an artist who absorbed the values of the Quaker Society of Friends. Despite their strict and frugal upbringing, Geoffrey always seemed content with a simple life and didn't need much to be happy.

The news of Holt's generous donation has brought attention to the town of Hinsdale, which some residents feel has been forgotten by the rest of New Hampshire. They hope that this gift will put Hinsdale on the map and bring more recognition to the community.

Overall, Geoffrey Holt's story is one of a man who lived a humble and unassuming life while secretly amassing a fortune. His selfless act of leaving his entire wealth to benefit his community has left the residents of Hinsdale grateful and inspired.