Historic Locations
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Click on photo to enlarge
Historic Bridges, NH
New Hampshire is home to 48 National Historic Bridges, each with a unique blend of materials like wood, steel, and stone. These bridges are not just pathways; they embody rich histories.
Berlin, NH
Androscoggin River
Androscoggin River
The small manmade islands provided a tranquil solution for two logging companies vying for access to the same river. Brown Paper Co. and International Paper Co. chose to divide the river, effectively segregating their floating logs. Each company marked their logs with a unique stamp hammered into the butt end. Although the era of log drives on the river has faded into history, these boom islands stand as enduring symbols of New Hampshire's rich logging heritage, attracting the curiosity of travelers. Today, the logging industry remains a vital part of the state's economy, contributing nearly $1.4 billion.
Laconia, NH
Hold onto your hats, history buffs! It’s time to dive into a rock-solid tale that’s over 370 years old! Meet Endicott Rock, the oldest monument in the U.S., proudly standing tall in New Hampshire since August 1, 1652! Back in the 1660s, surveyors from the Massachusetts Bay Colony decided that this granite giant needed a little spicing up, so they etched some letters onto its rugged surface to mark the boundary between New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Talk about rock ‘n’ roll! 🎸 But wait, there’s more! To save this historical superstar from the wear and tear of Mother Nature, New Hampshire swooped in and built a protective enclosure before the 1900s. It’s like giving a treasure a cozy little home.
Tamworth, NH
This is no ordinary boulder along a New Hampshire roadside! Ordination Rock is a glacial boulder steeped in history, being the location where Samuel Hidden was ordained as the first minister of the area in 1792 on top of this glacier rock. After his service in the Revolutionary War, Hidden aimed to establish a church and selected this rock as a powerful symbol for its foundation, inspired by the Bible. Seventy years later, the local community paid tribute to his legacy by building a monument atop this significant rock. Be sure to take a look at the hand-chiseled staircase!
Andover, NH
One of the country's most famous magicians and ventriloquists has his upbringing in the State of New Hampshire. His name was Richard Potter, and he was a master of disguises and needed to be, as most of the population did not know he was Black. In the 1800's, a famous and rich black man was not the most accepted amongst most people. Richard was the son of a former slave. Richard was known for his gentlemanliness, good humor, and courtesy towards everyone. Richard demonstrated to an entire generation of Americans that a black man, no less than a white man, could exemplify the best qualities of humanity. In the small town of Andover, Richard lived and today is buried with his wife.
Concord, NH
An extraordinary woman, an inspiring educator, and a true hero is honored in her hometown of Concord, NH. Christa McAuliffe, a high school teacher, was the first American civilian chosen to go to space. Tragically, she lost her life in the Challenger space shuttle explosion in 1986. In tribute to her legacy, Concord High School has named its auditorium after her, featuring a hand-painted portrait of Christa in her NASA uniform by the entrance. Additionally, a middle school continues to uphold her memory. Lastly, her remarkable life is commemorated with a beautiful tombstone, ensuring she is never forgotten.
Manchester, NH
This bronze statue speaks volumes! It symbolizes and commemorates the more than 3,000 women—over one-third of Manchester's population—who labored at the Amoskeag Manufacturing Textile Mill in 1880. The artist behind this powerful work is Antoinette Schultze.
Concord, NH
On the grounds of New Hampshire's State Capitol, the legacies of two notable figures are commemorated in a striking manner. Inside the building, an inspiring hand-painted portrait honors Alan Shepard, the first American to journey into space. Outside, a lifelike statue pays tribute to Franklin Pierce, the fourteenth President of the United States. Pierce's presidency is often regarded by historians as one of the most contentious in American history.
The fourteenth President of the United States (1853-1857) was born and buried in New Hampshire, where much of his history remains in Concord. Visitors can find his marked tombstone in Old North Cemetery and the original steps of his home, which burned down four years after his death. A life-sized statue of him stands in front of the State Capitol. His legacy is controversial due to his strong advocacy for the expansion of slavery, which conflicted with the views of many Northern citizens.
Hinsdale, NH
In the year 1875, a unique sight could be seen cruising through the alleys of Hinsdale late at night: a charcoal-powered bicycle, complete with wooden wheels and a steering wheel. The rider had to cherish his innovative contraption in secret, as the local community demanded its removal from the streets, arguing that it scared the horses and posed a danger to society. This remarkable invention could achieve speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Eventually, the same inventor would go on to patent one of the first gasoline-powered cars, which now proudly resides in the Smithsonian Institution. Meet George Long, the visionary behind this creation, whose machine shop—the birthplace of such ingenuity—still stands on a seldom-traveled road in New Hampshire.
Perry, NH
Ready for a cosmic adventure? 🚀 Let’s blast off with an exciting question: Who was the very first U.S. citizen to journey into the great beyond? Drumroll, please... it's none other than the legendary Alan Shepard! 🌟
But wait, there’s more! Fast forward to the incredible story of the oldest person to step onto the lunar surface—that’s right, Alan had a daughter who made her own space debut just 23 years after her dad took his final trip to the stars! How cool is that?
And while we're celebrating this space family legacy, let’s not forget where Alan rests. He’s forever remembered in a serene New Hampshire cemetery in Derry. So here’s to Alan and his family—may the force be with you always!
But wait, there’s more! Fast forward to the incredible story of the oldest person to step onto the lunar surface—that’s right, Alan had a daughter who made her own space debut just 23 years after her dad took his final trip to the stars! How cool is that?
And while we're celebrating this space family legacy, let’s not forget where Alan rests. He’s forever remembered in a serene New Hampshire cemetery in Derry. So here’s to Alan and his family—may the force be with you always!
Mason, NH
Interested in the origin of the phrase "Uncle Sam"? We’ve got the story for you. A man named Samuel Wilson grew up on a farm in the quaint community of Mason, New Hampshire. He later moved to New York, where he worked as a meat packer. During the war, Samuel's company provided meat rations for the soldiers. Eventually, Samuel became the army's meat inspector. The rations were marked with "U.S.," and the soldiers often joked that it stood for "Uncle Sam" Wilson. Today, Samuel’s childhood home is privately owned, but his legacy endures with a historic landmark sign in the yard. What a great New Hampshire stop!
Kingston, NH
With a remarkable legacy that deserves recognition, Josiah Bartlett from Kingston, New Hampshire, remains an understated figure in history. As one of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence, his contributions are significant. Throughout his life, Josiah served as a governor, held the position of chief justice in two courts, and dedicated 45 years to the practice of medicine. A plaque in front of his home serves as a testament to his enduring legacy in New Hampshire.
Kingston, NH
What appears to be just another quiet drive down a hidden road leads you to the enchanting Sanborn Seminary! Founded in 1883, this striking brick structure was a hub of learning for more than 80 years, until its last class waved goodbye in 1966. While the halls may be hushed now, the spirit of Sanborn still lingers, whispering tales of the dreams once cultivated within its walls.
Harrisville, NH
Cruising through historic Harrisville, NH, feels like a journey through time. This quaint mill town, home to about 900 residents, showcases sturdy brick buildings that tell stories of a bygone era. Each corner reveals history, with the library at its heart—a sanctuary filled with the wisdom of generations. The air brims with nostalgia, giving Harrisville a rare charm that resonates in every brick and breeze amidst a rapidly changing world.
Milford, NH
The first novel published in North America by an African American is fondly commemorated in her hometown of Milford, NH. Meet Harriet E. Wilson (1825-1900), accompanied by her 7-year-old son, who tragically passed away just six months after the release of her debut book. Their story is just one facet of her extraordinary life; Harriet also created hair products and engaged in lectures on spiritualism. A lovely park along the Black Heritage Trail invites visitors to pause and reflect on what it might have been like to share a cup of tea with her.
Portsmouth, NH
In 2003, during the excavation of a manhole, a significant historical discovery was made when human remains were uncovered by the crew. This area had been a cemetery for Black African Americans in the 1700s and 1800s, but over the years, it was built upon and paved over. Today, the 419 individuals buried here are commemorated by a beautiful memorial park. Surrounding the park are several statues and murals that offer further insights into the African American community that once lived in this Portsmouth neighborhood. One notable mural depicts Ruth Blay, the last woman to be executed in Portsmouth.
Cornish, NH
A National Park in New Hampshire honors a historic sculptor by preserving the grounds, home, interior furnishings and life-size sculptures. Augustus Saint-Gaudens achieved his critical success of commemorating heroes of the American Civil War in sculpture pieces. Many of them still stand today. A full day is easily enjoyed touring the beautiful grounds, studying the many sculptures and reminiscing throughout the massive rooms in the home. The back of the property offers a stroll through untouched nature of tall swaying trees, moss covered rocks and roots and a babbling stream.
Claremont, NH
sculpture. The small town of Claremont (pop 12,949) celebrates the laboring hands of the residents, past and present, through this sky-reaching metal sculpture. Over 250 years ago, Claremont was founded by the hardworking hands of the many steel mills in the area! These sculpture hands bring the past and the present together, as many of the hands are actual tracings of the local residents. A tribute to the hands of Claremont, who helped shape their city, the sculpture is entitled, "Our hands then and now."
Keene, NH
As one enters the southwestern part of New Hampshire, the long, winding roads are infrequently interrupted by charming little New England towns. One fine example is Keene, with a population of about 20,000 residents.
Old diners, beautiful wall murals, huge silos and hand-cut stone railroad bridges have a story to tell. It is easy to spot a most curious double silo carrying a happy face and curious eyes, near the edge of town.