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In 1853, New Hampshire became the first state to pass a law requiring schools to provide free education to all children.
About Rockingham County
Rockingham County Timeline
Rockingham County, New Hampshire has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1769. Named after Charles Watson-Wentworth, the 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, this county was initially settled by European colonists seeking new opportunities in the New World. The original inhabitants of the area were the Pennacook Native American tribe, who were gradually displaced as more settlers arrived.
In its early years, Rockingham County was primarily an agricultural region. Farming was a vital part of the economy, with crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes being grown. The county also had a thriving shipbuilding industry, taking advantage of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Along the coast, several small towns and fishing villages emerged, contributing to the county's growth.
During the American Revolutionary War, Rockingham County played a significant role. Exeter, one of its major towns, was temporarily the capital of New Hampshire and hosted the state's government meetings. Many local residents actively participated in the war effort, serving in the military or supporting the cause in various ways.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Rockingham County experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. The textile industry became prominent, with mills popping up along the region's rivers. The county's population boomed, and towns like Portsmouth, Derry, and Salem saw significant growth. Today, Rockingham County remains a thriving area, blending its historical roots with modern developments, making it a vibrant part of New Hampshire's cultural and economic landscape.
In its early years, Rockingham County was primarily an agricultural region. Farming was a vital part of the economy, with crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes being grown. The county also had a thriving shipbuilding industry, taking advantage of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Along the coast, several small towns and fishing villages emerged, contributing to the county's growth.
During the American Revolutionary War, Rockingham County played a significant role. Exeter, one of its major towns, was temporarily the capital of New Hampshire and hosted the state's government meetings. Many local residents actively participated in the war effort, serving in the military or supporting the cause in various ways.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Rockingham County experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. The textile industry became prominent, with mills popping up along the region's rivers. The county's population boomed, and towns like Portsmouth, Derry, and Salem saw significant growth. Today, Rockingham County remains a thriving area, blending its historical roots with modern developments, making it a vibrant part of New Hampshire's cultural and economic landscape.
Rockingham County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rockingham County, New Hampshire.
- 1623 - Captain John Mason receives a land grant for the area known as New Hampshire.
- 1629 - The first English settlement, known as Little Harbor, is established.
- 1641 - The area becomes part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
- 1679 - New Hampshire is separated from the Massachusetts Bay Colony and becomes its own province.
- Rockingham County is officially established, named after Charles Watson-Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, in 1769.
- 1775-1783 - Rockingham County residents actively participate in the American Revolutionary War.
- 1816 - The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is established in Kittery, Maine, but is located across the Piscataqua River from Rockingham County.
- 1903 - The Hampton Beach State Park is established.
- 1938 - The Great New England Hurricane causes significant damage to the county and other parts of New England.
- 1980 - The Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant begins commercial operations, generating controversy and public protests.