In the early days, New Hampshire was full of a most-needed resource: wood. New Hampshire's tall trees and rolling forests gave rise to a logging industry that supported the state through much of its early development. Logging wasn't just an industry - it was a way of life for New Hampshire residents. These 11 historic New Hampshire photos will show the logging industry in a way you've never seen.
1. These men standing on a pile of logs in Keene in the nearly 1900s shows that hard work didn't stop once the logs were out of the woods.
2. You would never believe that this is a photo of Concord, back when the state capital was little more than a logging town.
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3. Back in the day there were no massive logging trucks. Logs moved through Keene in a much slower fashion.
4. Rolling the logs onto a transport sled was a massive undertaking.
5. Nothing like a little snow to complicate the work for these horses in Gillford in 1939.
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6. In 1954, horses were working hard to clear the land on Dartmouth College Grant in Coos County.
7. Trains were an essential part of transporting lumber out of the Granite State.
8. Driving logs down the river was dangerous work where men balanced on wood to keep it moving downstream.
9. Berlin was one of the largest logging meccas in the state.
10. Driving around New Hampshire today you still see plenty of logging, like this scene from Andover.
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11. Logging gets a bad reputation, but it can lead to some beautiful scenery.
The most wonderful time of year will be here shortly! Yes, I know that phrase is usually associated with the winter holidays but for me, it applies to the great season of autumn. The trees burst forth with color; the temperatures get cooler, and all seems right with the world. It's also the time of year to hit up a great fall harvest festival, like Waterville Valley Resort's Fall Foliage Festival in Waterville Valley.
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Waterville Valley Resort's Fall Foliage Festival will be happening in early October amidst the dramatic backdrop of the White Mountains.
Welcome autumn at this fun and exciting event, featuring family fun and entertainment in a stunning natural setting.
The Snow's Mountain chairlift will be open to bring visitors high up on the mountain where foliage viewing opportunities should be excellent. Hoping for good weather!
This is a family-friendly weekend with plenty of activities for the kids, such as a family fun run, a live animal show presented by Squam Lakes Science Center, and pumpkin painting.
Days two and three of the four-day festival will feature live musical entertainment in the gazebo located in the town square.
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As the winter season gets closer, come to the festival to grab great deals on ski and snowboard gear at the BBTS Ski & Snowboard Swap.
Local outdoor retailer Sport Thoma will also be in attendance with their tent sale, which features a variety of gear, footwear, and clothing.
Make your plans now to attend this excellent fall harvest festival and welcome autumn! For more information visit Waterville Valley Resort and also follow Waterville Valley Resort on Facebook for updates as the event draws closer.
If autumn is your favorite time of the year, check out these scenic drives in New Hampshire that are downright magical in the fall. Don't forget to pack snacks before you set off.
Summer is here and the weather is likely to be a scorcher. For me, that means spending as much time outside as possible. While the summer season is full of things to do like hitting the beach, traveling to new places, barbecues, and baseball games, it's also a time to celebrate the country's independence. Memorial Day is often thought of as the kickoff to summer, but it's the Fourth of July when things really get going, and that includes dazzling fireworks displays. If you've been asking yourself "Where to watch fireworks near me," here are some upcoming Independence Day celebrations across New Hampshire.
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1. Annual 4th of July Parade & Celebration, Conway
This free event takes place on July 4, 2024, from 1:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Schouler Park in Conway Village. The festivities begin with the annual parade with live music in the afternoon. Stick around during the evening for a stunning fireworks display to end the day. For more information, visit the Conway Parks and Recreation Department.
2. Fireworks Celebration, Portsmouth
Celebrate Independence Day at New Hampshire's most historic seacoast location on July 3, 2024, starting at 9:15 p.m. at South Mill Pond across from Portsmouth City Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Learn more about the city's role in the fight for independence from England, topped off with a fireworks display that is sure to wow. For more information, visit Go Portsmouth.
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3. Independence Day Show, Weirs Beach
Weirs Beach claims the title of "first Independence Day show in New Hampshire" and you are invited to join in on July 3, 2024, at 9:30 p.m. Enjoy fun, celebration, and an exciting evening of fireworks over Lake Winnipesaukee. For more information, visit the Weirs Beach Fireworks website.
4. 4th of July Special Fireworks Shoot, Hampton Beach
While fireworks are held every Wednesday evening at Hampton Beach, this annual Fourth of July event is the biggest display of the summer. The festivities happen on July 4, 2024, at 9:30 p.m. on the beach at the top of B and C Streets. For more information, visit the Hampton Beach Village District.
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5. Annual 4th of July Celebration, Concord
New Hampshire's capital city celebrates Independence Day at Memorial Field on July 4, 2024, starting at 6 p.m., with the fireworks kicking off at 9:20 p.m. Also, enjoy live music and tastes from a variety of food vendors as part of the evening. For more information, visit the Concord Parks and Recreation Department.
6. Independence Day Celebration, Manchester
The skies light up over New Hampshire's largest city on July 3, 2024, at Ames Park. Admission is free and there will be food vendors and live entertainment. The fireworks kick off at 9:30 p.m. but be sure to arrive early to stake out a great viewing spot. For more information, visit Manchester Ink Link.
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7. 4th of July Fireworks and Baseball Game, Nashua
The city of Nashua will be holding its annual fireworks display as part of the Nashua Silver Knights baseball game on July 4, 2024. The game kicks off at 11 a.m. and the first 500 adults get in free. After the game is a free concert, local entertainment, a drum & bugle corps performance, and then the fireworks at dusk. For more information, visit the
I urge you to enjoy these fireworks displays safely and from a comfortable distance. While fireworks are legal here in New Hampshire, these big displays are best left to the professionals, who have safety protocols in place. Also, if you need a comfy camp chair for watching the festivities, L.L. Bean has you covered!