History of Hooksett, New Hampshire, USA

1839 - Hooksett
Hooksett, New Hampshire
Merrimack county. It lies nine miles S.S.E. from Concord. The river Merrimack, whose course here is nearly N. and S., passes through this town a little W. of the centre. Here are those beautiful falls, known by the name of Hooksett Falls.—The descent of water is about 16 feet perpendicular in 80 rods. A high rock divides the stream, and a smaller rock lies between that and the western shore. There is a pleasant village on the W. side of the river. There is a strong and well built bridge over the Merrimack river. Hooksett canal is in this town. It is 1/ 4 of a mile long—the fall is 16 feet perpendicular. Hooksett was detached from Chester, Goffstown, and Dunbarton, and incorporated as a separate town in June, 1822. On the E. side of the river is an extensive cotton factory, owned by the Amoskeag Company. Population, 1830, 880.
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 - Hookset
HOOKSET, a post - township of Merrimack co., New Hampshire, on the Merrimack river, and on the Concord railroad, 9 miles S. by E. from Concord. Population, 1503.
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.

1857 - FIRE AT HOOKSETT.
About 12 o'clock, last night a fire broke out in the Mitchell Block at Hooksett, and before the flames could be stopped the building was entirely consumed. It was formerly used as a store but of the late has been occupied by families. The store house for cotton of the Amoskeag Co., caught fire on the roof several times, but by much effort it was kept from the cotton. It is said the fire was set. - Manchester Mirror, 11th.
New Hampshire Patriot & State Gazette
Concord, New Hampshire
September 16, 1857

1857 - Great Fire at Hooksett.
The Concord Railroad Bridge over the Merrimack River at Hooksett, took fire about 12 o'clock Wednesday night, in the roof about one hundred feet from the easterly end of the Bridge soon after the passage of the Vermont Central Freight Train.

The Station Agent and Watchman, Mr. Wheeler, passed over the bridge immediately after the crossing of the Freight Train and returned, but the fire was not discovered until just as the was leaving the westerly end of the bridge. It had caught between the sheathing and the roof so as not to be at first visible, at such an elevation as to be difficult of access. Alarm was immediately given, and every effort made to stop the progress of the fire, but proved unavailing, and in a very few minutes the whole roof of the bridge was in flames.

The wind carried the flames so as to reach the Highway Bridge immediately north of the Railroad Bridge which was also burnt, together with the store near the westerly end of the Railroad Bridge occupied by J. T. ... Read MORE...

1895 - Hookset
Hook'set , a post - village of Merrimack co., N.H., in Hookset township, on the Merrimac River, and on the Concord Railroad, at the S. terminus of the Suncook Valley Railroad, 11 miles below Concord. It has 2 hotels, a church, 1 or 2 cotton-factories, extensive brick-yards, and a graded school. Here is a railroad bridge over the river. Pop. of the township in 1890, 1893.
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

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Hooksett and its surrounding areas:
Bear Brook State Park:
Located in nearby Allenstown, this state park offers hiking trails, a swimming area, and opportunities for picnicking and camping. It's an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pinnacle Mountain:
This small mountain in Hooksett provides a great hiking opportunity with a rewarding view from the top. It's a relatively easy hike, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

Robie's Country Store:
Established in 1887, Robie's is a historic country store where you can enjoy a delicious meal, browse local goods, and experience a piece of New Hampshire's past.

New Hampshire Motor Speedway:
Located just a short drive from Hooksett in Loudon, this racetrack hosts various events, including NASCAR races and motorcycle races. Check the schedule for upcoming races and events.

McLane Audubon Center:
Explore the beauty of nature at the McLane Audubon Center in nearby Concord. This center features walking trails, wildlife exhibits, and educational... Read MORE...