The Small Town In New Hampshire You’ve Never Heard Of But Will Fall In Love With
Small towns make up the heart of New Hampshire. They are filled with history and are often located within quaint scenery among the hills and valleys of the state. The Connecticut River Valley is one such area to find these towns and one that many individuals may not be so familiar is Cornish, New Hampshire.
Cornish was incorporated in 1765 and takes its name from Sir Samuel Cornish, an admiral of the Royal Navy. It was once referred to as "Mast Camp." It was the origin of tall shipping masts that floated down the river.
Cornish's western border lies along the Connecticut River, across the river from Vermont. The dominant landscape feature seen from the town is Vermont's Mt. Ascutney.
In the late 1800s, Cornish was a haven for writers and artists. Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a sculptor, came here to escape the summer heat of New York City. Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park lies on the grounds of his estate.
Hikers and mountain bikers can enjoy escaping into nature at Cornish Town Forest. An extensive trail network extends throughout the forest. The highest point, Wellmans Hill, provides an excellent view of Mt. Ascutney.
Once the longest covered bridge in the U.S., the historic Cornish–Windsor Covered Bridge (1866), spans the Connecticut River between Cornish and Windsor, Vermont.
In late summer, the Cornish Fair takes place in town. This family-friendly agricultural fair first took place in 1950 and is also home to New Hampshire's largest dairy show.
If passing through the Connecticut River Valley, be sure to make a stop in Cornish, New Hampshire for some exploration. You can learn more about the town at its official website.
