County of grafton

History & Founding

Located in the western region of New Hampshire, this county encompasses a vast and diverse landscape. Established in 1769, it was initially known as Cumberland County, but was renamed in 1771 to honor General Thomas Grafton, a British military officer who served in the War of the Austrian Succession. While Grafton never actually visited the region, his name was chosen to honor his service and to curry favor with the British Crown at a time when New Hampshire’s independence was still uncertain. The county played a crucial role in the early development of New Hampshire, serving as a frontier region for settlement and a vital link to Vermont, with which its borders were often disputed. An interesting anecdote from its early history involves a brief, unofficial secession attempt in 1776, when several towns declared independence from both New Hampshire and Great Britain, forming the short-lived Republic of Vermont – a testament to the rebellious spirit of the frontier.

Geography & Landscape

The county's geography is striking, covering 1,714 square miles and featuring a dramatic mix of terrain. Bordered by Vermont to the west and Quebec to the north, it occupies a significant portion of the White Mountain region. The landscape is dominated by the Connecticut River, which forms the western boundary, and numerous smaller rivers and streams that carve through the valleys. The Appalachian Trail traverses the county, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Notable peaks include Mount Washington, the highest point in the Northeastern United States, and numerous other summits within the White Mountain National Forest. The climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, typical of a northern latitude.

Economy & Communities

The area is comprised of 38 towns and villages, each retaining a distinct character. Major towns include Littleton, Newport, and Woodsville, which serves as the county seat. The economy is largely based on tourism, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing. Historically, logging and papermaking were significant industries, and remnants of these operations can still be seen in the landscape. Today, agriculture focuses on dairy farming, maple syrup production, and specialty crops. Tourism flourishes due to the stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Notable employers include Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and various hospitality businesses. The overall character is distinctly rural, with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life.

Points of Interest

Points of interest abound within the county. The White Mountain National Forest provides endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth commemorates the life and career of the former U.S. president. The Museum of the White Mountains offers insights into the region’s history and culture. The annual Littleton Rotary Festival is a popular summer event. The county boasts a significant number of historic covered bridges, remnants of a bygone era. Notably, the county has the highest percentage of forested land in New Hampshire, a testament to its enduring natural heritage. The FIPS code for this county is 009, a unique identifier for governmental purposes.