History of Bristol, New Hampshire, USA

1839 - Bristol
Bristol, New Hampshire
Bristol, in the S.E. part of Grafton county, is bounded N. by Bridgewater, E. by Pemigewasset river, and W. by Hill. It is 16 miles S. from Plymouth and 30 N. from Concord. The land is hilly, but has, in general, a good soil. Newfound pond, about 6 miles in length and from 2 to 3 miles in width, lies in this town and in Hebron. Its waters are discharged through Newfound river, a stream about 2 miles long and 100 feet wide, into Pemigewasset river. At the confluence of these rivers is a pleasant village, a cotton factory, and a number of valuable mill seats. Bristol was taken from Bridgewater and New Chester, and incorporated June 24, 1819. The first settlement was made in 1770. Population, in 1830, 799.
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 - Bristol
BRISTOL, a post - township of Grafton county, New Hampshire, 30 miles N. from Concord. Population, 1103.
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 - Bristol
Bristol, a post - village and summer resort of Grafton co., N.H., in Bristol township, on the Pemigewasset River, and on the Bristol Branch of the Northern Railroad, 34 miles N. by W. of Concord. It has a high school, a savings-bank, 3 churches, 2 paper-mills, and manufactures of flannel, gloves, & c. Pop. of the township, 1416.
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 - BRISTOL CENTER OF EARTHQUAKE
(By Associated Press)

Bristol, March 20--All indications and reports point to the fact that Bristol was the center of the earthquake disturbance which occurred Tuesday evening about 7:15 o'clock. The shock was not felt in Concord, and only slightly in Laconia and Franklin.

In Bristol, it was the most severe shock for several years, and some assert it to be the heaviest they had ever experienced. It started with a heavy thud, followed by rumblings and tremors which moved in a northerly direction and continued while folks gathered to talk about it. At the time of the recent quake which was considered quite heavy through New Hampshire, very few places noticed it, but it this case, it was generally recognized throughout the town and in the adjacent community of Hebron.

In this instance, dishes rattled, articles in rooms trembled, and building swayed, but no damage is reported.
Portsmouth Herald
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
March 20, 1930

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Bristol:
Newfound Lake: Start your visit with a trip to Newfound Lake, one of the cleanest and most pristine lakes in New Hampshire. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach at Wellington State Park. Don't forget to bring a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Wellington State Park: This state park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and camping. It's a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts. There are also boat ramps if you want to go kayaking, canoeing, or fishing on Newfound Lake.

Profile Falls: Located just outside of Bristol, Profile Falls is a hidden gem. It's a beautiful waterfall on the Smith River with hiking trails and picnic areas. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon in nature.

Mini Golf at Mini-Verde: For some family-friendly fun, head to Mini-Verde Mini Golf. It's a well-maintained miniature golf course that's sure to provide hours of entertainment ... Read MORE...