Located in the heart of New England, New Hampshire is a state of firsts and natural wonders, a place where history and nature intertwine to create a unique American story. Known as the Granite State, New Hampshire’s rugged character is mirrored in its landscapes and its people’s spirit. Here’s an exploration of this fascinating state, crafted to educate and engage.
A Foundation Set in Granite
New Hampshire’s moniker, “The Granite State,” is a nod to its extensive granite quarries, which have supplied the stone for significant structures in cities like Boston and Washington D.C. The pink Conway Granite and the gray Concord Granite are local legends in their own right, named after the towns where they were first quarried.
Independence in Its Roots
The state’s motto, “Live Free or Die,” encapsulates its fierce independence. It was the ninth state to ratify the constitution, but even before that, New Hampshire declared its independence from England in Exeter on January 5, 1776. This spirit of liberty is a thread that runs deep in the state’s fabric.
Touching the Stars
New Hampshire has touched the cosmos through Alan Bartlett Shepard Jr., the first American to travel into space. His journey paved the way for his later achievement of walking on the moon, making him the fifth man to do so. His initial 15-minute flight soared 116 miles into the atmosphere, a testament to human ambition and ingenuity.
Weathering the Winds of Time
Mount Washington stands as a testament to New Hampshire’s enduring strength. In 1934, it recorded ground winds of 231 miles per hour, a record that stood until 1996. These winds are comparable to those found in Category 5 hurricanes and F4 tornadoes.
Innovation on Ice
The state boasts the only FAA-approved ice runway in the lower 48 states, located on New Hampshire’s Winnipesaukee lake. Opened to airplane traffic in 2009, this 2,730 feet long and 100 feet wide stretch of ice is a marvel of modern aviation.
A Verdant Canopy
More than four-fifths of New Hampshire is forested, making it the second-most forested state in the U.S. after Maine. This lush canopy is a haven for wildlife and a playground for nature enthusiasts.
The Birthplace of the Potato
In 1719, the first potato planted in the United States took root in New Hampshire soil. This humble beginning marks an agricultural milestone that would lead to one of the world’s most beloved and versatile crops.
Honoring a Gaming Pioneer
The Ralph Baer Memorial in Manchester pays tribute to the “father of video games.” Baer’s invention, the “Brown Box,” was the prototype for the world’s first commercially sold video game system, the Magnavox Odyssey. His pioneering work laid the foundation for the multibillion-dollar gaming industry we know today.
New Hampshire may be small in size, but its contributions to history, science, and culture are immense. From its granite-rich grounds to its windswept peaks, from its revolutionary roots to its innovative spirit, New Hampshire stands as a beacon of American resilience and ingenuity.