History of New Castle, New Hampshire, USA

Beginning on June 11, 1682, Great Island experienced a supernatural event—a Lithobolia, or "Stone-Throwing Devil," recorded in a 1698 London pamphlet by Richard Chamberlain. On a Sunday night at about 10 o'clock, the tavern home of George Walton, an early settler and planter, was showered with stones thrown "by an invisible hand." Windows were smashed, and the spit in the fireplace leapt into the air, then came down with its point stuck in the back log. When a member of the household retrieved the spit, it flew out the window of its own accord. The gate outside was discovered off its hinges...

...The "Stone-Throwing Devil" created quite a sensation on Great Island. Hundreds of stones mysteriously rained down on George Walton's tavern, as well as onto him and others in the area over the entire summer. Yet, no one ever came forward who saw anyone throwing the stones. Many other mysterious events also occurred at that time. Demonic voices were heard, and items were flung about inside...

Fort William and Mary was the site of one of the first acts of the American Revolution. On the afternoon of December 14, 1774, colonists arrived aboard gundalows (sailing barges) and raided the fort. Severely outnumbered, Captain John Cochran and the fort's five soldiers surrendered, whereupon the rebels loaded onto a boat 100 barrels of gunpowder. The boat was floated up the Piscataqua River and the powder offloaded for transport to inland towns, including Durham, where the ammunition was stored in the cellar of the Congregational church. The next day, the colonists returned to the fort and removed 16 of the lighter cannon and all small arms. The gunpowder was used at the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill.

New Castle, New Hampshire
Rockingham county, is a rough and rocky island, situated in Portsmouth harbor, and formerly called Great Island. A handsome bridge, built in 1821, connects this town with Portsmouth. Here is an ancient church. Rev. Samuel Moody preached here previous to the commencement of the 18th century. New Castle was incorporated in 1693, and contains 458 acres. This island was the seat of business, when ancient Strawberry Bank was the mere germ of the town of Portsmouth. Fishing is here pursued with success, and the soil among the rocks, being of good quality, is made to produce abundantly. Fort Constitution and the light-house stand on this island.—Population, 1830, 850.

New Castle, a post-township of Rockingingham co., New Hampshire, 44 miles S. E. from Concord. It occupies an island comprising 458 acres, situated in Portsmouth harbor, and connected with Portsmouth by a bridge. Population, 891.

New Castle, a post-township of Rockingham co, N.H., about 3 miles E. by S. of Portsmouth. It is a small island in Portsmouth harbor. Pop. 667.

Visit Fort Constitution Historic Site:
Fort Constitution, originally known as Fort William and Mary, is a historic fort dating back to 1631. It played a significant role in the American Revolution and is a must-visit for history buffs. You can explore the fort's well-preserved grounds, including the iconic stone tower. The views from here, overlooking the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor, are simply stunning.

Discover Great Island Common:
Great Island Common is a lovely seaside park with picnic areas, a playground, and scenic walking paths. It's the perfect place to relax with a picnic, fly a kite, or simply take in the ocean breeze. The views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Isles of Shoals are spectacular, making it a popular spot for photography.

Explore the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel:
Wentworth by the Sea is a historic grand hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1874. Even if you're not staying here, you can still visit to admire the elegant architecture and...