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New Hampshire Adds 8 Historic Sites to State Register

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ire-adds-8-historic-sites-to-state-register.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 14:09 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New Hampshire, UNITED STATES

Concord, NH - February 25th, 2026 - New Hampshire's commitment to preserving its rich past has been reaffirmed with the addition of eight new properties to the State Register of Historic Places. The New Hampshire State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) made the announcement today, recognizing these locations for their profound historical and cultural contributions to the state's heritage. This latest cohort joins a growing list of treasured landmarks, ensuring their stories will be accessible for generations to come.

The properties added to the register represent a diverse range of New Hampshire's history, from agricultural roots and industrial advancements to educational institutions and residential life. The selections highlight not just architectural significance, but also the lives and legacies of those who shaped the state.

A Closer Look at the New Additions:

The eight properties inducted into the register are:

• The Daniel Perkins Mill (Andover): This mill stands as a testament to New Hampshire's early industrial history. Likely dating back to the 19th century, mills like Perkins' were vital economic engines, transforming raw materials into finished goods and fueling the growth of local communities. The mill's inclusion on the register will help preserve a tangible link to the state's manufacturing past.

• The Joseph and Mary Bixby House (Barnstead): Representing a classic example of New England residential architecture, the Bixby House offers insights into the lifestyles and social structures of the region. Its architecture likely reflects the prosperity of its original owners and potentially showcases popular styles of the time. Researching the Bixby family history could reveal important local stories.

• The Perkins Farm Complex (Bath): This expansive complex embodies the agricultural heritage of New Hampshire. Farms were the backbone of the state's economy for centuries, and preserving these sites is crucial for understanding the challenges and triumphs of rural life. The complex likely includes barns, dwellings, and other outbuildings, each offering a glimpse into farming practices of a bygone era.

• The Black Mountain School (Franconia): A unique entry on the list, the Black Mountain School represents a significant chapter in the history of art and education. Founded in 1933, it was a progressive educational experiment that attracted leading artists, writers, and thinkers, including Josef Albers, Anni Albers, and Buckminster Fuller. The school, while short-lived, exerted a massive influence on subsequent artistic movements, particularly Abstract Expressionism and Minimalism. Its preservation ensures continued access to a place that fostered creativity and innovation.

• The Samuel Eaton House (Gilford): Similar to the Bixby House, the Eaton House provides valuable information about domestic life in New Hampshire. The house's architectural style and condition can offer clues about building techniques, materials used, and the social status of its inhabitants.

• The Moses Houghton Farm (Kingston): Another crucial piece of New Hampshire's agricultural past, the Houghton Farm likely showcases the evolution of farming practices over time. Investigating the farm's records could reveal details about crop rotations, livestock management, and the family's role in the local economy.

• The Henry and Martha Morrill House (Plainfield): This house serves as a snapshot of middle-class life in New Hampshire. Examining the Morrill family's story and the house's architectural details could illuminate broader trends in social and economic history.

• The William and Emily Wood House (Unity): This residence contributes to understanding the architectural landscape of rural New Hampshire. Like the other homes on the list, it provides valuable data for architectural historians and helps paint a more complete picture of the state's built environment.

The Significance of the State Register

The State Register of Historic Places is more than just a list; it's a vital tool for preserving New Hampshire's identity. Inclusion on the register provides access to state-level preservation grants, which can be used for restoration, rehabilitation, and educational projects. This financial assistance helps ensure that these important sites are maintained for future generations.

Furthermore, being listed on the State Register often opens doors to federal grant opportunities and tax credits. The SHPO plays a crucial role in reviewing proposed alterations to registered properties, ensuring that any changes are compatible with the building's historical character.

"These properties represent the diverse history of New Hampshire," stated Eleanor Vance, Director of the SHPO. "Preserving them is not just about saving buildings; it's about safeguarding the stories of the people who built and lived in this state. Each property offers a unique window into our past."

The SHPO encourages property owners to consider nominating their historic buildings and sites to the State Register. Information about the nomination process can be found on the SHPO website: [ https://www.nh.gov/nhdhr/ ]. By celebrating and protecting these treasures, New Hampshire ensures its legacy endures.