Federal Building

a.k.a. Federal Office Building

719 Main St., Laconia, NH
The Federal Building, Laconia, New Hampshire possesses local significance as a notable example of a federal government building in this community erected under the New Deal-era federal programs designed in the 1930s to relieve the economic problems caused by the Great Depression. The federal building is also locally significant as a notable example of the Simplified Classical architectural style with Art Deco-style detailing popularized through the federal building projects of the 1930s and 1940s. The building is significant under National Register Criterion A (properties that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history) and Criterion C (properties that embody a distinctive characteristic of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master).
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

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.

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New Hampshire was one of the original thirteen colonies that rebelled against British rule in the American Revolution.
Belknap County, located in the state of New Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Abenaki Native American tribe before European settlers arrived in the 17th century. It was named after Jeremy Belknap, a prominent clergyman and historian of that time.

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.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.