National Register Listing

Dorchester Common Historic District

a.k.a. See Also:Dorchester Community Church

Roughly bounded by N. Dorchester 2 mile NW of intersection with NH 118, Dorchester, NH
Local significance of the district:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

New Hampshire is the only state in the United States that does not have a mandatory seat belt law for adults.
New Hampshire random facts
Grafton County, located in the state of New Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back to colonial times. It was originally settled by European immigrants in the mid-18th century, with the first townships established in the 1760s. The area was primarily occupied by indigenous Abenaki people, who had traditionally used the lands for hunting and fishing.

During the American Revolution, Grafton County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Many local residents enlisted in the Continental Army and fought in pivotal battles such as Bunker Hill and Saratoga. Although the county itself was not directly involved in any major battles, it provided crucial resources and support, including supplying troops with food and clothing.

In the early 19th century, Grafton County experienced rapid industrialization, driven by the rise of the textile and manufacturing industries. Water-powered mills were established along the region's rivers, leading to the growth of mill towns such as Lebanon and Littleton. These towns became centers of commerce and provided employment opportunities for many local residents.

Since then, Grafton County has experienced steady population growth and development. It has become known for its scenic beauty, with the White Mountains National Forest covering a large portion of the county. The area continues to attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other recreational activities. Grafton County's rich history and natural attractions make it a vibrant and diverse part of New Hampshire.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Grafton County, New Hampshire.

  • 1769 - Grafton County is established by the New Hampshire Provincial Assembly.
  • 1770 - Townships within Grafton County are granted to settlers by the Masonian Proprietors.
  • 1772 - Plymouth becomes the first incorporated town in Grafton County.
  • 1773 - Dartmouth College is founded in Hanover.
  • 1799 - The town of Haverhill is split into two separate towns, resulting in Woodsville.
  • 1823 - The town of Bath is incorporated.
  • 1827 - The town of Lisbon is incorporated.
  • 1840 - The town of Lincoln is incorporated.
  • 1865 - The town of Littleton is incorporated.
  • 1895 - The town of Lebanon is incorporated.
  • 1939 - The Old Man of the Mountain, a famous rock formation, collapses in Franconia Notch.