Introduction to Concord, New Hampshire
Concord is located in Merrimack County and is the capital of New Hampshire. The city includes the communities of Penacook, East Concord and West Concord. The Merrimack River travels through the municipality. The downtown area is situated on a terrace located west of the River. Neighborhoods in the city are positioned on small hills. Penacook Lake is in the vicinity.
Concord Heights, situated on a bluff, primarily serves as a center for commerce. The city is recognized as a major center for health care and is home to several significant insurance companies.
History
The region was home to the Abenaki Native Americans known as the Penacook. In 1725 the area was established as the Plantation of Penacook. In 1734 the city was incorporated and was called Rumford. In 1765 Governor Benning Wentworth changed the name of the town to Concord. The area became increasingly more significant throughout most of the 18th century. The central location of Concord was a primary factor for the city becoming the state capital in 1808. The opening of a canal and lock system which gave boats the opportunity to travel around the Amoskeag Falls and continue to Boston was a significant factor for choosing Concord as the state capital.
The city became recognized as a major center for the manufacturing of furniture as well as a source for granite. In 1828 the company known as Abbot-Downing Coaches was established. The Concord Coach was their most well-known model. Beginning in 1842 the town became a center for the railroad industry and was a primary factor for the population of Concord to almost double in size within a decade.
Places of Interest
The city is home to numerous noteworthy landmarks and popular attractions including:
- The New Hampshire State House
- The Eagle Hotel provided meals for Presidents Benjamin Harrison, Ulysses S. Grant and Rutherford Hayes
- Phenix Hall
- The Walker-Woodman House is recognized as the oldest home in Concord
- Pierce Manse was the residence of President Franklin Pierce before and after his presidency
- New Hampshire Historical Society
- Christa McAuliffe Planetarium
- 118-158 North Main Street showcases four noteworthy buildings constructed in the 19th century
- State Block
- James R. Hill Building
- Chase Block
- Railroad Square
- Endicott Hotel
- Capital Center for the Arts
Transportation
Interstates 89 and 93 are the primary interstates that serve the city. U.S. Route 3 is recognized as the the city's Main Street. Air flights are provided at the Manchester - Boston Regional Airport.
Higher Education
The Franklin Pierce Law Center and Hesser College - Concord are located in the city.
