A Journey Through New Hampshire's Unbelievable Past: Scenic Marvels Amidst Eccentric Historical Facts

New Hampshire, the idyllic Granite State, has long been a bastion of natural beauty and captivating peculiarities. The states rich history is sprinkled with an array of fascinating tales that will captivate those who revel in the allure of bygone eras. This journey through time traverses the picturesque landscapes that have always defined this woodland wonderland while uncovering astonishing stories from its storied past.

Perhaps no place exemplifies New Hampshire's enchanting blend of historical intrigue and scenic splendor more than Franconia Notch (I93 Exit 34B, Lincoln, NH 03251). Here lies the former site of one of Americas founding odditiesthe Old Man in the Mountain. Long before Robert Frost immortalized this stonefaced colossus in his poem The Gift Outright, Native American lore attributed mystical powers to it. Residents considered it a symbol akin to Leonardo da Vincis Vitruvian Mana representation of humanity hewn into nature itselfand they mourned its collapse on May 3rd, 2003 as if they had lost a close relative.

Equally astounding are Portsmouths Strawberry Banke Museum (14 Hancock Street, Portsmouth NH 03801) and its legendary fairy houseswhimsical architecture found only along New England coastlines dating back centuriesinspiring countless paintings by artists such as David Lenz and Norman Rockwell. As you explore these charming Colonialera streets lined with resplendent gardens teeming with folklore flora like witch hazel or hear about how sailors' superstitions led to families believing magical creatures inhabited seashells around town squareyou may be tempted to leave some enchanted offering yourself!

One cannot mention eccentricities without passing through Canterbury Shaker Village (288 Shaker Road Canterbury NH 03224), once home to the Shakers, a peculiar religious sect with unconventional beliefs and practices, such as communal living and gender equality in the 18th century. This harmonious community thrived on ingenuity and foresight; their captivating architectural designs can be seen throughout the village's immaculately preserved structures. Within its picturesque surroundings, one discovers that furniture championed by crafters like Thomas Moser owes its minimalist aestheticand even its very existenceto New Hampshires own devout denizens.

Now if you're seeking an adventure into local customs combined with hairraising historical events, look no further than Laconia Motorcycle Week (Tower St., Weirs Beach Laconia NH) a festive celebration boasting over 100 years filled with roaring engines and lively camaraderie. It is here where thousands gather for delicious fare amidst lush greenery surrounding Lake Winnipesaukeeinspiring artists of all mediums from Ken Burns documentary film series to John Irvings bestselling novels set along these picturesque shores.

But when autumn descends upon New Hampshire, nothing compares to the magic found at Stark Park (River Rd., Manchester NH), renowned for General John Starkthe American Revolutionary War hero who gave birth to 'Live Free or Die.' Herein lies a hidden geman intricately carved tombstone featuring Sinisterraa grotesque figure plucked straight out of Edgar Allan Poe's macabre tales! Akin to Washington Irving's legendary Headless Horseman prowling through Sleepy Hollow Cemeteryone might wonder what secrets lay beneath this haunting visage peering out beneath fiery foliage?

So pull on your boots and grab your binocularsNew Hampshire awaits those eager souls prepared to embrace curious historical facts within a backdrop of tranquil landscapes laden with artistic inspiration!

Useful websites:

Franconia Notch: https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/stateparks/franconianotchstatepark.aspx

Strawberry Banke Museum: https://www.strawberybanke.org/

Canterbury Shaker Village: https://www.shakers.org/

Laconia Motorcycle Week: http://laconiamcweek.com/

Twitter handles:

@VisitNH

@NHStateParks

@SpringBanke