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Flag associated with Bristol, New Hampshire, USA History of Bristol, New Hampshire, USA

Journey back in time to Bristol, New Hampshire, USA

Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Bristol, New Hampshire, USA.

ABOUT THE PLACE

About Bristol

Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Congregational Church, Bristol, N.H., Erected 1827, Remodeled 1870
Bristol was taken from Bridgewater and New Chester (now Hill) and incorporated June 24, 1819. Colonel Peter Sleeper, Benjamin Emmons, and others commenced a settlement here in 1770.

Extensive deposits of fine sand or clay similar to the "Bristol Sand" used in Bristol, England, to make fine china and pottery gave the town its name...
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VINTAGE BRISTOL

Bristol Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Congregational Church, Bristol, N.H., Erected 1827, Remodeled 1870
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Congregational Church, Bristol, N.H., Erected 1827, Remodeled 1870
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - The Square in Winter
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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The Square in Winter
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Central Square, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Central Square, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - R. R. Station, Bristol, N.H., 1906
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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R. R. Station, Bristol, N.H., 1906
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Central Square
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Central Square
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Prince's Place on Newfound Lake, 1910
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Prince's Place on Newfound Lake, 1910
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Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Ledge Road, Newfound Lake, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Ledge Road, Newfound Lake, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Mt. Cardigan, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Mt. Cardigan, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Birdseye view of Bristol, N.H., 1910
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Birdseye view of Bristol, N.H., 1910
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Birdseye view of Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Birdseye view of Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Bungalo Village, Newfound Lake, 1912
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Bungalo Village, Newfound Lake, 1912
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Akerman House, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Akerman House, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Central Square
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Central Square
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - First National Bank, 1931
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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First National Bank, 1931
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA - Newfound Lake, Bristol, N.H.
Bristol, New Hampshire, USA
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Newfound Lake, Bristol, N.H.
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to BRISTOL

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I Love NEW HAMPSHIRE Mug – Apple Cider Donuts, Pumpkins & Maple Syrup Coffee Cup

Celebrate cozy New Hampshire autumns with every sip! The I Love New Hampshire Mug features charming illustrations of Apple Cider Donuts, Pumpkins, and Maple Syrup, capturing the essence of fall in the Granite State.

NEW HAMPSHIRE - Arrival of Trains at Base of Mt. Washington, NH – Postcard Ceramic Mug

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Arrival of Trains at the base of Mt. Washington, NH, captured in exquisite detail as featured in a postcard from over 100 years ago!

NEW HAMPSHIRE - Mt. Washington Aluminum Bookmark – "Climb High, Stay on Track" with Historic Postcard Images

Mark your place in style with this Mt. Washington aluminum bookmark, featuring stunning images from vintage postcards and the inspirational slogan: "Climb High, Stay on Track – Mt. Washington, NH." A perfect keepsake for book lovers, history buffs, and White Mountains enthusiasts, this durable and lightweight bookmark captures the charm and adventure of New Hampshire’s most iconic peak.

NEW HAMPSHIRE - Mt. Washington Coffee Mug - Historic Postcard Images of Mt. Washington & Cog Railway

Climb to the Clouds - Mt. Washington & the Historic Cog Railway! Sip your favorite brew while enjoying a nostalgic journey through the White Mountains with this ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcard images of Mt. Washington, NH, and the legendary Mt. Washington Cog Railway.
LOCAL HISTORY

Discover Bristol: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Bristol through the years.

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.
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.
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 ...
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GENEALOGY IN BRISTOL

Discover YOUR Roots: Bristol Ancestry

Explore ancestors connected to Bristol through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.

BIRTHS & DEATHS

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Bristol, New Hampshire, USA

We currently have information about 3 ancestors who were born or died in Bristol.

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Updated: 1/17/2025 3:49:15 PM
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