History of Alton, New Hampshire, USA

1839 - Alton
Alton, New Hampshire
Strafford county. This town lies 22 miles N.E. from Concord, and 25 N.W. from Dover, and is bounded N. by Winnepisiogee lake and bay. The town is rough and uneven; the soil hard and rocky, but productive when well cultivated. The growth of wood is chiefly oak, beech, maple, and pine. The principal elevations are Mount-Major and Prospect Hill. Merrymeeting bay extends S. about 1800 rods into this town, where it receives the waters of Merrymeeting river. Half-moon pond, between Alton and Barnstead, is 300 rods long and 150 wide. This town was originally called New Durham Gore, and was settled in 1770, by Jacob Chamberlain and others. It was incorporated Jan. 15, 1796. Population, in 1830, 1,993. This town has 2000 sheep.

The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1854 - Alton / Alton Bay
Alton, a post-township of Belknap county, New Hampshire, on the Cocheco railroad, 22 miles N. E. from Concord. Pop., 1795.

Alton Bay, a post-office of Belknap county, New Hampshire.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1895 - Alton / Alton Corner
Alton, or Alton Corner, a post-village of Belknap co., N.H., in Alton township, on the Boston & Maine Rail road, 27 miles N.W. of Dover. It has 2 churches, a savings bank, graded school, &c.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1930 - THREATENING FIRE AT ALTON BAY
Departments Of Four Cities And Towns Called To Fight Blaze

Alton, March 3. - The Bayview Pavilion, a dance hall overlooking Alton Bay, a mile from here, was destroyed by flames last evening in a fire of unknown origin. The postoffice, a hotel and residence of Martin and Stephen Lynch, owners of the dancing resort, were threatened but escaped the flames as the combined efforts of Laconia, Alton, Rochester and Farmington firemen directed efforts to saving these buildings, located in the vicinity of the doomed pavilion.

The structure, 100 by 75 feet, was erected seven years ago and was considered one of the most up-to-date in the Lake Winnipesaukee region. A moving picture playhouse, a dance hall, a soda grill and scores of booths, formed part of the building. There were three moving picture machines in the pavilion at the time.

The first alarm was rung in at 9:30 o'clock and when Alton firemen reached the scene, another alarm was sent in and telephone calls were sent to... Read MORE...

Here's a list of some of the best activities and attractions in and around Alton:
Lake Winnipesaukee: One of the biggest draws of Alton is its proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee, which is the largest lake in New Hampshire. You can spend your day swimming, boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. There are several public access points and marinas where you can rent boats and water sports equipment.

Alton Bay: Alton Bay is a picturesque area on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. It's a great place for picnicking, strolling along the boardwalk, or enjoying ice cream from one of the local shops. Don't miss the iconic Alton Bay bandstand, which hosts live music events during the summer.

Mount Major: If you're into hiking and outdoor adventures, Mount Major is a must-visit. It offers some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains. The hike to the summit is moderately challenging, but the panoramic views from the top make it all worth it.

Alton Town Beach: This public beach on Lake Winnipesaukee is perfect... Read MORE...