The New Hampshire Colony, one of the original 13 colonies of the United States, holds a unique and fascinating history. As we delve into its intriguing past, you’ll discover 15 facts that shed light on this remarkable colony. From its founding to its role in shaping American history, New Hampshire has an exceptional story to tell.

Fact 1: A Land of Firsts

  1. First Settlement: New Hampshire was the location of the first permanent settlement in New England. In 1623, Captain John Mason and Sir Ferdinando Gorges established the town of Portsmouth.
  2. First Constitution: In 1776, New Hampshire adopted the first state constitution in the United States, a crucial milestone in shaping the nation.
  3. First Public Library: The state’s capital, Concord, is home to the first free public library in the world. The Concord Public Library was founded in 1796, offering knowledge to all.

Fact 2: Origin of the Name

  1. Named After Hampshire, England: New Hampshire derived its name from Hampshire, a county on the southern coast of England. John Mason, a founder of the colony, hailed from Hampshire, and the name was adopted as a tribute to him.
  2. Variation in Spelling: The colony’s name has been spelled in various ways over the years, including “New Shire” and “Newcester,” before finally settling as “New Hampshire.”
  3. Nickname: The Granite State: New Hampshire earned this moniker due to its vast granite deposits, which are still important to its economy today.

Fact 3: Geography and Natural Beauty

  1. Picturesque Landscapes: New Hampshire is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The White Mountains, part of the Appalachian Range, are a hiker’s paradise, with Mount Washington, home to some of the world’s worst weather, being a notable peak.
  2. Lake Winnipesaukee: New Hampshire boasts Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in the state, known for its crystal-clear waters and charming islands.
  3. Seacoast Region: The state’s small, but striking seacoast region offers a picturesque coastline and historical towns like Portsmouth and New Castle.

Fact 4: Colonial Beginnings

  1. Plymouth: The First Settlement: The first European settlement in New Hampshire was established in 1623, predating the famous Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts.
  2. Royal Province: New Hampshire was initially under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Bay Colony but later became a royal province in 1679.
  3. Revolutionary Spirit: New Hampshire played a vital role in the American Revolution. Its citizens were known for their fierce independence and support for the revolutionary cause.

Fact 5: The First State to Declare Independence

  1. 1776 Declaration: New Hampshire became the first colony to declare independence from British rule, doing so on January 5, 1776. Their revolutionary spirit was a precursor to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
  2. One If By Land, Two If By Sea: The famous signal for Paul Revere’s midnight ride, “One if by land, two if by sea,” referred to the number of lanterns to be lit in Boston’s Old North Church. This message was received in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
  3. Historic Significance: New Hampshire’s early declaration of independence showcases its significant role in American history.

Fact 6: The Old Man of the Mountain

  1. Natural Wonder: The Old Man of the Mountain, a rock formation resembling a man’s face, was a cherished symbol of New Hampshire. Unfortunately, it collapsed in 2003, marking the end of an iconic era.
  2. State Emblem: The Old Man of the Mountain was featured on the state’s quarter, state route signs, and various other official symbols.
  3. Legacy Lives On: Although the natural formation is gone, the legacy of the Old Man of the Mountain still endures in the hearts of New Hampshire’s residents.

Fact 7: Industrial Innovations

  1. Textile Mills: In the 19th century, New Hampshire played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, with textile mills like the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company in Manchester driving economic growth.
  2. Paper Production: The state became a hub for paper production, earning the nickname the “Paper State.”
  3. Innovative Spirit: The industrious nature of New Hampshire residents laid the foundation for the state’s economic development.

Fact 8: Live Free or Die

  1. State Motto: “Live Free or Die” is the state motto of New Hampshire, emphasizing the strong sense of individualism and freedom deeply ingrained in the state’s culture.
  2. No Seatbelt Laws: New Hampshire is one of the few states in the U.S. with no mandatory seatbelt laws for adults. This reflects their commitment to individual liberties.
  3. Political Significance: The state’s motto and political values often make it a focal point during presidential elections.
See also  15 Facts About the American Flag

Fact 9: Winter Wonderland

  1. Skiing Paradise: With its snowy winters and numerous ski resorts, New Hampshire is a skiing and snowboarding haven. The state is particularly known for the White Mountains and the Lakes Region.
  2. Winter Sports Tradition: The state has a rich tradition of winter sports, with numerous Olympic athletes hailing from New Hampshire.
  3. Winter Tourism: Tourism during the winter months significantly contributes to the state’s economy.

Fact 10: Covered Bridges

  1. Historic Bridges: New Hampshire is famous for its charming covered bridges. These bridges served as a practical solution to protect wooden structures from the elements.
  2. Iconic Movie Scene: The 1994 film “The Bridges of Madison County,” starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep, was partially filmed in New Hampshire, showcasing its scenic bridges.
  3. Tourist Attractions: These historic bridges continue to be popular tourist attractions and a testament to the state’s rural charm.

Fact 11: Birthplace of the Free Public Library

  1. Peterborough Town Library: Founded in 1833, the Peterborough Town Library is the first free public library in the world.
  2. Educational Legacy: New Hampshire’s commitment to education is evident in its establishment of this pioneering institution.
  3. Literary Haven: The library has an extensive collection, making it a haven for book lovers and scholars.

Fact 12: Franklin Pierce, the 14th President

  1. Presidential Roots: Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, was born in Hillsborough, New Hampshire.
  2. Controversial Legacy: Pierce’s presidency was marked by controversies, including his stance on slavery, which further deepened divisions in the country.
  3. Historical Reflection: His presidency remains a subject of historical reflection, especially in regard to the events leading up to the American Civil War.

Fact 13: New Hampshire’s Unique State Legislature

  1. Citizen Legislature: New Hampshire has a unique citizen legislature, with 400 state representatives who are not career politicians. They are paid only a token salary and have regular jobs outside of politics.
  2. Direct Democracy: The state is known for its town hall meetings and a strong emphasis on direct democracy.
  3. Local Governance: This approach to governance reflects the state’s commitment to local control and community involvement.

Fact 14: A Scenic Railway Journey

  1. Mount Washington Cog Railway: The Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, has been in operation since 1868. It offers a thrilling journey to the summit of Mount Washington.
  2. Historical Significance: The railway played a vital role in making the summit of Mount Washington accessible to tourists.
  3. Breathtaking Views: The ride offers stunning vistas of the White Mountains and is a must-experience for visitors.

Fact 15: Historic Sites and Museums

  1. Strawbery Banke: Located in Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke is a living history museum that portrays daily life in the 17th century. It’s a step back in time for visitors.
  2. The Wright Museum: Dedicated to World War II, The Wright Museum in Wolfeboro showcases an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the era.
  3. New Hampshire’s Rich Heritage: These museums and historic sites are testaments to New Hampshire’s rich heritage and its commitment to preserving history.

Conclusion

In closing, the New Hampshire Colony is a place where history, natural beauty, and a spirit of independence converge. From being a birthplace of independence to its stunning landscapes and unique cultural attributes, New Hampshire’s story is one worth exploring. The Granite State has left an indelible mark on the American narrative, and its legacy continues to thrive in the present day.

Related Posts:

Categorized in:

History Facts