History of Belknap County, New Hampshire

Belknap County, New Hampshire, is located in the central part of the state and is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including the stunning Lake Winnipesaukee. Established in 1840, Belknap County played a significant role in the development of New Hampshire, with its origins closely tied to both the state’s colonial past and its later industrial and tourism growth. The county’s natural beauty and abundant water resources have drawn settlers, entrepreneurs, and tourists for centuries. Today, Belknap County continues to celebrate its history while embracing modern-day recreational and cultural activities.

Origins and Early History

Native American Inhabitants

Before European settlers arrived in the region that would become Belknap County, the land was inhabited by various Native American tribes, primarily the Abenaki people. The Abenaki were part of the larger Algonquin language group and lived in much of New England, including what is now New Hampshire. They thrived along the lakes and rivers, where they fished, hunted, and cultivated crops such as maize, beans, and squash.

The Abenaki also had a rich tradition of crafting tools and pottery, and they engaged in trade with other tribes and with European settlers. Their knowledge of the land and its resources was crucial to the early survival of European colonists, who relied on Native American expertise for farming, fishing, and navigating the region’s challenging terrain.

The arrival of European settlers, beginning in the early 1600s, marked the beginning of significant changes for the Abenaki people. As settlers established towns and farms, the Native American tribes were gradually displaced. The Abenaki continued to resist colonial expansion through occasional skirmishes and negotiations, but their numbers and influence dwindled as settlers encroached on their land.

Colonial and Early European Settlement

European settlers began arriving in New Hampshire in the early 1600s, drawn by the fertile land, abundant forests, and natural resources. The first English settlers in the Belknap County region likely arrived in the early 1700s, although the area remained sparsely populated for much of the colonial period. The region was originally part of the larger town of Dover and later, the town of Gilmanton, which was settled in the 1720s and became a major center for farming and milling.

As the population of New Hampshire grew, the Belknap County region was further developed. The opening of roads, the establishment of mills along the rivers, and the growth of agriculture made the area more attractive to settlers. In 1840, Belknap County was formally established, named after a prominent New Hampshire politician, Governor Belknap. The new county included several towns that had been part of Gilmanton and other neighboring regions.

The Role of Belknap County in the 19th Century

The 19th century was a period of significant change for Belknap County, as it became increasingly tied to the broader economic and industrial developments in New Hampshire. The construction of roads, canals, and later railroads allowed for better transportation and communication. By the mid-1800s, Belknap County began to see more urbanization, and its towns became centers for trade and manufacturing, particularly in textiles, timber, and granite.

Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire, became an important resource for the county, supporting industries like fishing, transportation, and recreation. The construction of steamboats in the early 19th century allowed for easier transportation of goods and people around the lake, facilitating tourism and commerce.

The county also became an important part of the state’s educational and political life during this period, with Gilmanton serving as a center of political influence until the mid-1800s, when the county seat was moved to Laconia. Laconia’s position along the lake made it an ideal hub for transportation and business.

Key Historical Events

Industrial Growth and the Rise of Laconia

One of the defining moments in Belknap County’s history was the rise of the city of Laconia as a center of industry. In the mid-19th century, the construction of a railroad and the development of the Laconia Manufacturing Company brought prosperity to the region. The factory, which produced textiles and other goods, became one of the largest employers in the area.

The advent of the railroad also contributed to the growth of Laconia, which soon became a bustling industrial hub. With the rise of industry, the town saw an influx of workers and their families, leading to the growth of a vibrant community. By the turn of the century, Laconia had become the county’s commercial and industrial center, offering a wide variety of goods and services to both local residents and tourists.

Tourism and the Birth of Lake Winnipesaukee as a Resort Destination

The late 19th century saw the development of tourism as a major economic driver for Belknap County. The natural beauty of the area, particularly the stunning Lake Winnipesaukee, attracted visitors from all over the northeastern United States. In the 1800s, the construction of luxury hotels and resorts around the lake brought a new wave of economic activity to the region.

Steamboats became a popular form of transportation for tourists who wanted to explore the many islands and towns around the lake. Laconia, Meredith, and Wolfeboro all became important centers of tourism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with visitors flocking to the area to enjoy boating, fishing, and the clean mountain air. These resorts and their surrounding communities helped to shape Belknap County’s identity as a popular vacation destination.

The 20th Century: Economic Change and the Growth of Recreation

The early 20th century saw the expansion of recreation in Belknap County, particularly the development of skiing and winter sports. With the opening of the Gunstock Mountain Resort in the 1930s, the county became a popular destination for skiers and outdoor enthusiasts. The rise of the automobile made it easier for visitors from across the region to travel to Belknap County, contributing to its ongoing development as a year-round tourist destination.

Additionally, the region’s strong focus on outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and boating, helped it to maintain its reputation as a haven for nature lovers. During the mid-20th century, Belknap County also experienced economic shifts, as manufacturing began to decline, and tourism became a more important source of income.

Historical Sites

1. Lake Winnipesaukee

Overview and Location

Lake Winnipesaukee is not only the largest lake in New Hampshire but also one of the most historically significant features of Belknap County. The lake has been central to the county’s economy, first as a resource for fishing and transportation and later as a tourist destination. Today, it remains one of the top recreational areas in the state, attracting visitors year-round.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Free
• Parking: Available at multiple public and private lots around the lake.

2. Laconia Railroad Station

Overview and Location

The Laconia Railroad Station, built in the mid-19th century, is a historic site that showcases the growth of the railroad industry in Belknap County. The station played a central role in the transportation of goods and people throughout the region, particularly during the industrial boom of the late 1800s. Today, the station is a well-preserved example of Victorian railroad architecture and remains an important symbol of the county’s industrial past.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Free
• Parking: Parking is available near the site.

3. Gunstock Mountain Resort

Overview and Location

Gunstock Mountain Resort, located in Gilford, is one of New Hampshire’s oldest and most popular ski resorts. It opened in the 1930s and has been an important part of the county’s recreational history. Today, it attracts thousands of visitors for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Prices vary based on the season and activity. Ski lift tickets are typically $50–$90 per day.
• Parking: Free parking available at the resort.

4. The Belknap Mill

Overview and Location

The Belknap Mill, located in Laconia, is the oldest textile mill building in New Hampshire and a key historical site in the county. Built in 1823, the mill was once a thriving center of industry, producing woolen fabrics for local markets. The building has been preserved and is now a museum that tells the story of the industrialization of Belknap County.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: $5 for adults, free for children
• Parking: Free parking available near the site.

County Facts

Geography and Climate

Belknap County is located in central New Hampshire, bordered by the stunning Lake Winnipesaukee to the east and the foothills of the White Mountains to the west. The county is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and several smaller lakes and rivers. The region’s natural beauty makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, campers, boaters, and skiers.

The climate in Belknap County is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 20°F to 30°F (-6°C to -1°C), while summers are warm, with temperatures averaging between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C). The area is also known for its beautiful fall foliage, drawing many visitors in the autumn months.

Key County Facts

• Year Founded: 1840
• County Seat: Laconia
• Population: Approximately 64,000 (2020 Census)
• Population Density: 190 people per square mile
• Largest Cities: Laconia, Meredith, Gilford
• Major Highways: U.S. Route 3, New Hampshire Route 11, New Hampshire Route 106
• Adjacent Counties: Carroll County, Belknap County, Grafton County, Merrimack County