Concord was one of New Hampshire’s earliest settlements. Its earliest settlers arrived in the Merrimack River valley region in 1659. In 1725, the region was granted by Massachusetts as the Plantation of Penacook. Just a few short years later, in 1734, the area was incorporated as the town of Rumford. In 1765, the town was renamed Concord following a boundary dispute with the neighboring town of Bow. As the town grew, it became a notable site for granite quarrying and manufacturing. Its central location in the state led to its selection as the state capital in the early 19th century. Today, Concord is a vibrant city that boasts numerous cultural landmarks and historic sites where visitors can experience the region’s rich history.
Construction began on the New Hampshire State House in 1816, after Concord beat out the towns of Hopkinton and Salisbury to be selected as the capital, thanks to its central location.
Architect Stuart J. Park built the original 2-story building in 1819 with granite mined directly from New Hampshire's Swenson quarries. The 3rd floor and the West Wing were added in a 1910 expansion. The historic State House is open to the public weekdays from 8 am to 4 pm, and guided tours are available.
The Concord Historic District spans 25 acres of the original city center.
The city was planned in 1726, and little in the historic district area has been altered since then. The district showcases examples of popular 19th century architecture styles, and includes the city’s oldest surviving house, that of Reverend Timothy Walker, which was built in 1735.
The Pierce Manse is the former home of the 14th President of the United States and New Hampshire native, Franklin Pierce. Before becoming president, Pierce lived in this residence from 1842-1848.
It was moved from its original location on Montgomery Street in 1971, due to a planned demolition. The building was opened to the public in 1974, and today visitors can come take a guided tour, look at President Pierce’s personal belongings, and learn about the history of his life, presidency, and home state.
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The historic Mary Baker Eddy House on North State Street also offers an intimate look at one of Concord’s most famous residents.
Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of the Christian Science movement, lived in this home from 1889 to 1892. The guided tours, offered four days a week, tell the story of Eddy’s life, her work, and her childhood in the nearby rural town of Bow, New Hampshire.
For visitors who want to take in some history while still enjoying New Hampshire’s great outdoors, it’s worth taking a trip to the Carter Hill Orchard.
The orchard has been in operation since the 1760s, and is now owned and operated by the Larocque family. Visitors can pick their own apples, purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from the farm stand, or just enjoy some apple cider made on-site while walking the trails or taking in the view from the observation tower.
Take a look at the town’s website here to learn more about all Concord has to offer.
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