Belknap-Sulloway Mill
a.k.a. Meredith Cotton and Woolen Mfg. Co. Mill
Mill St., Laconia, NHThe so-called Belknap-Sulloway Mill ranks among the foremost examples of small brick textile mills in New England. A survey of textile manufacturing architecture being carried out by old Sturbridge Village indicates it to be the earliest surviving brick mill in the region by virtue of a date of 1823. [Louis McLane, U. S. Secretary of Treasury, Report, 1832, Documents Relative to American Manufactures (Washington, 1832)]. As a typical example of a once common form of industrial architecture, the mill contains original elements rarely found in structures of that period. The framing of floors and roof is intregal to its original build, and the added turbines illustrate the changes in the use of water power systems.
Unlike the larger complex of textile mills of Manchester and Nashua, N. H., the Belknap-Sulloway mill was built on a small scale more typical of rural manufacturing of the 1820's, especially of the so-called Rhode Island manufacturing system. In form it reflects the developments, of textile mill architecture in southern New England. Unlike the earliest surviving mill in, Harrisville, N. H. (1832) which conforms to an out-dated building form, the Belknap-Sulloway mill was a forward looking: architectural specimen.
The location of this and the Busiel Mill on the banks of the Winnipesaukee River was originally the nucleus of a small manufacturing village. As part of the modern urban renewal project, the mills are again a central focal point of downtown Laconia.
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
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.
In the early years, Belknap County was primarily a farming community with settlements spread across the region. The area experienced some level of conflict during the French and Indian War in the mid-18th century, as well as during the American Revolutionary War. However, it remained a relatively remote and undeveloped area until the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century transformed Belknap County, opening up new opportunities for trade and commerce. The county saw a significant increase in tourism as people from nearby cities began visiting the lakes and mountains in the region, attracted by its natural beauty. This led to the development of resorts and hotels, further boosting the local economy.
Belknap County continued to grow and evolve into the 20th century. The county became an important center for manufacturing, with industries such as textiles, paper mills, and shoe manufacturing playing a significant role in the local economy. Over time, the county also expanded its educational and cultural institutions, establishing schools, libraries, and museums to serve the growing population.
Today, Belknap County remains a thriving part of New Hampshire, known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and thriving communities. While agriculture and manufacturing have seen decline, the county has diversified its economy to include sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and service industries. Belknap County continues to honor its history while embracing modern development, ensuring a bright future for its residents and visitors.
Belknap County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Belknap County, New Hampshire.
- 1790: Belknap County was established on December 22, 1790.
- 1823: The first county courthouse was built in Meredith.
- 1840: Laconia, the largest city in the county, was incorporated on February 23, 1840.
- 1842: The Belknap County complex, including the current courthouse, was completed in 1842.
- 1855: The railroad arrived in Belknap County, contributing to its economic growth.
- 1868: The Laconia Car Company, a major employer, was founded in Laconia.
- 1973: The Gunstock Mountain Resort opened in Gilford.
- 1995: The Belknap Mill, the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.