8 Things You Didn't Know About The History Of New Hampshire
×
Rachel
Author
We all know that New Hampshire is a special state (in fact, in our biased opinion, it’s the best one) – and we all know that it’s played a historic role in the story of the United States. But sadly, many of the most fascinating facts of Granite State history are skimmed over or forgotten. These 8 facts will make you even more proud to be a New Hampshirite!
New Hampshire was the first state to declare its independence from Great Britain, and in recognition of that leadership, the delegates from New Hampshire were given the honor of being the first to vote for the Declaration of Independence (though they were not the first to sign it).
Alan Shepard, an East Derry native, was the first American in space on May 5, 1961. That record-breaking mission only lasted 15 minutes, but Alan Shepard was later the fifth man on the moon in 1971.
Advertisement
The splendor of the White Mountains led them to make this statement. We'd like to amend it - perhaps Switzerland is the New Hampshire of Europe!
Advertisement
Theodore Roosevelt won a Nobel Prize for his work ending the Russo-Japanese War, which was negotiated at the Portsmouth Peace Conference. Although the negotiations occurred and the final treaty was signed in Kittery, Maine, the delegates stayed at the Wentworth Hotel in New Castle, and the armistice that ended the fighting was signed there.
Related Stories
This Hidden New Hampshire Estate Is A True Treasure With Stunning Views
These 12 Photos Of New Hampshire From The Early 1900s Are Beyond Fascinating
Right Now, You Can Buy A Frank Lloyd Wright Home In New Hampshire And Own A Piece Of History
"Live free or die" was coined by Revolutionary general John Stark, who sent the following text to former comrades in 1809 to use as a toast commemorating the Battle of Bennington: "" The following year, a similar invitation (also declined) said: "Live Free Or Die; Death Is Not The Worst of Evils." The New Hampshire state legislature made this the official state motto in 1945.
Scottish settlers planted potatoes in Nutfield (now Londonderry) in 1719. Spuds are still the state vegetable!
The New Hampshire Lottery has been in operation since 1964, and has to this date raised more than $1.9 billion for the state.
Wolfeboro, beloved for its incredible views of Lake Winnipesaukee, was founded in 1770, and soon after it became a summer destination when the nephew of governor Benning Wentworth built a country estate on the lakeshore.
What other interesting facts do you know about the history of New Hampshire? Feel free to share below!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.