6 Towns In New Hampshire That Transport You To The Past
New Hampshire's history of settlement traces all the way back to the 17th century when towns started to set up by the Piscataqua River. As time passed, the region saw the growth of farming villages and mill towns. While big cities modernized with time, many New Hampshire towns have kept their old-time feel and held on to century-long traditions. Nowadays, these spots give off an atmosphere of American heritage, where the present meets the past, offering a rare glimpse into early New England life. So jump back in the pages of history and learn about six towns in New Hampshire that transport you to the past.
Portsmouth
This old coastal town began its tale way back in 1623, making it one of the first established across the whole country. To start off, head to the Strawbery Banke Museum. This museum spans 10 acres, with preserved buildings from ages past. Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse is another intriguing place filled with history. Its original structure rose as early as 1771, but its current iron version dates back to 1878. Placed within grounds originally known as the Fort William and Mary area, this lighthouse has been witness to important historical events. In December 1774, citizens boldly attacked Fort William and Mary, an early sign of rebellion against British rule.
For modern history, there is also the USS Albacore Museum. Here, you can come inside of a submarine from the days of the Cold War. Experience what it was like in tight quarters and listen to tales spun by sailors who once crewed this underwater vessel. Today Portsmouth continues its reverence for the past with brick-built structures, with the occasional cobblestone street to give it that authentic feel. The Moffatt-Ladd House gives off an immersive colonial atmosphere while Market Square has maintained its status as a busy hub for centuries, showing off the town’s long connections with sea travel and trade.
Exeter
Want to walk around a town from the Revolutionary War era? There are few places that can help you discover that feeling more than Exeter. The area was first settled in 1638 and later served as the state's de facto capital during the Revolution, home to the state's governing body and rebel leaders. Ready to dive into history? Your first stop is none other than the American Independence Museum. Boasting an actual copy of the Declaration of Independence, it's a treasure chest for history buffs. Not only that, but the museum also paints a vivid picture of Exeter's contribution as New Hampshire’s command center during the Revolutionary War.
After that, if you feel like a walk through history, the Exeter Historical District is a great pick. In this part of town, buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries have been maintained in great condition. When people visit, they really can feel the essence of America's early days when colonials designed their homes and public places. After taking in this American history, head down to Exeter River and Swasey Parkway, a scenic riverwalk offering peaceful trails and views of the downtown area from a slightly different perspective.
Harrisville
Harrisville is a town where history feels alive. Incorporated in 1870, it remains one of New England’s best-preserved mill villages, with 19th-century woollen mills and workers' homes still intact. Strolling through the Harrisville Historic District, history peeks through every corner. The whole area is a National Historic Landmark, boasting preserved wool factories, workers' homes, and a local shop that has been kept in tip-top condition. The town's history is preserved through Historic Harrisville, Inc., an organization dedicated to maintaining the Historic District. It helps shed light on how this town played a vital part in New Hampshire's flourishing cloth-making trade.
Things take their time in Harrisville, adding to its allure. The local Harrisville General Store, open since the days of horse carriages, remains a meeting spot. Residents pop in for some food while visitors can experience what it is like living in a town that has firmly held onto its heritage. Beyond history, Harrisville offers quiet places to enjoy nature. In the heart of town, Harrisville Pond reflects the hills and aged buildings in its peaceful water. Nearby, there are quiet walking routes - perfect for taking in all the beautiful sights around.
Canterbury
Canterbury began as a farming settlement before growing into one of New England’s largest Shaker communities. At the 694-acre historic Canterbury Shaker Village, they share the story of the Shakers, a religious group famous for their plain living, craftsmanship, and innovative ideas. People coming here can see buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, still standing proudly today. After, head to the Canterbury Center. In the heart of town, there are all sorts of historic places of worship and buildings to see. The Canterbury Town Hall was built in 1857 while the United Community Church has been around since 1823, both of which reflect the age-old character of a historic New England town.
For a good time in the open air, check out Hackleboro Orchards. Locally owned, this orchard is part of Canterbury history and in the fall, you can pick apples. At the same time, you can check out the orchard's farm stand. It is full of fresh local food and homemade items. Lastly, head to the Fox Country Smoke House, which, for over half a century, has used slow-curing techniques to produce some of the best-smoked meats in New England. Their bacon is dry-cured and smoked over native hardwood, giving it a deep, rich flavor.
Keene
Few things helped advance the U.S.A. more than the railroad, and that history is alive in Keene. The Cheshire Railroad Stone Arch Bridge, built in 1847, spans the Branch River and remains one of the best-preserved pre-1850 stone arch bridges. Originally part of the Cheshire Railroad, it is now part of the Cheshire Rail Trail which offers views along the former railroad line. The Historical Society of Cheshire County lets you learn about the old railroad history, teaching all about interesting stories of the area. You will hear about the region's first-ever train in 1848 and the businesses that grew by the tracks.
At the heart of downtown Keene, Central Square features historic architecture, local shops, and the iconic United Church of Christ, often referred to as the "White Church." For an interesting walk, the Cheshire Rail Trail reaches out over 33 miles, weaving through the middle of Keene and showing off lovely sights - great for a bike ride, a long walk, or some hiking. Not far away is Stonewall Farm which has a real-life dairy farm you can visit. It also has paths you can hike on and programs about farming in a sustainable way.
Walpole
Walpole sits only 15 miles upwards from the Massachusetts border and lies alongside the flowing waters of the Connecticut River. The town boasts a colorful past, dotted with well-kept homes, businesses passed down generations, and heritage farms. The Walpole Historical Society Museum shares tales of the town through relics and displays about its first residents and primary businesses. Just a short walk away, the Walpole Town Common is surrounded by historic homes and structures. Not far from the common, the Bellows Walpole Inn, steeped in history dating back to the 1760s, once hosted stagecoach travelers, preserving a colonial-era atmosphere that endures today.
Among the pride of the town is L.A. Burdick Chocolates - an ultimate favorite stopover for people looking for handmade treats and a mug of thick, smooth hot chocolate. Close to town, you can find Distant Hill Gardens. It has paths to walk through woods and swamplands, and it is a top spot for a quiet getaway. When fall arrives, many people head to Alyson's Orchard to enjoy picking apples and looking at the stunning hillside.
New Hampshire's towns can feel like a trip down memory lane into the books of history, where the past is not just memorialized—it is appreciated. Walk through Portsmouth, where hints of its marine history are still present. In Exeter, fervor for freedom from the Revolution keeps strong. Harrisville’s factories stay untouched by time, while Walpole’s old-time allure survives. Here, memories never vanish and when you come to visit, you will be going home with countless stories and memories from days long ago.
