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Journey back in time to Mason, New Hampshire, USA

Explore Mason, New Hampshire, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.

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Mason, New Hampshire, USA - Mason, New Hampshire, USA - An Ancient Landmark, 1901

Mason was first known as "Number One", the easternmost in a line of border towns including area allotted to the Province of New Hampshire after its border with neighboring Massachusetts was fixed in 1739. The town was granted its own charter in 1749 by colonial governor Benning Wentworth, and in 1768 his nephew, Governor John Wentworth, named it in honor of New Hampshire's founder, Captain John Mason, who along with Sir Ferdinando Gorges had been granted the territory in 1622 by the Council of New England. In 1629 the land grant was split between the two proprietors, with Gorges retaining the eastern portion of the territory (present-day Maine), and Mason holding the patent with title to the land that became New Hampshire.

Greenville was set off from Mason in 1872.



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Mason Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Mason, New Hampshire, USA - An Ancient Landmark, 1901
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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An Ancient Landmark, 1901
Mason, New Hampshire, USA - Solid Citizens of Mason, N.H. at Post Office, 1906
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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Solid Citizens of Mason, N.H. at Post Office, 1906
Mason, New Hampshire, USA - View of Village from the North
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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View of Village from the North
Mason, New Hampshire, USA - Mail Delivery, R.F.D., 1914
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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Mail Delivery, R.F.D., 1914
Mason, New Hampshire, USA - The Maples
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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The Maples
Mason, New Hampshire, USA - Pickity Palace
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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Pickity Palace
Mason, New Hampshire, USA - Parkers Maple Barn
Mason, New Hampshire, USA

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Parkers Maple Barn

Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to MASON

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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.

Discover Mason: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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1839 - Mason
Mason, New Hampshire
Hillsborough county. It is 15 miles S.W. from Amherst, 43 S.S.W. from Concord, and 50 N.W. from Boston. The surface is uneven; the hills are chiefly large swells, with narrow valleys between them. The streams are rapid. There are no natural ponds. The principal meadows were formerly beaver ponds. Souhegan is the principal stream, affording many fine mill seats. The small streams run into Nashua river, and into Tanapus, or Potanipo pond, in Brookline. The soil in the E. part is rather light. The W. part is mostly a strong deep soil, red or dark loam, but stony. It is good for grass and grain. In Mason village, on the Souhegan, are cotton and woolen manufactories, and other machinery. Mason was granted by charter, Aug. 26, 1768. It was formerly known by the name of No. 1. The first effort to settle this place was in 1751, and the next year a permanent settlement was made by Enoch Lawrence, from Pepperell, Mass. Population in 1830, 1,422.
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
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Mason and its surrounding areas:
Hiking: Mason is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Consider hiking in the nearby trails, such as the Pack Monadnock Trail or the Wapack Trail. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty, so you can choose one that suits your preferences and fitness level.

Fishing: The region around Mason has several lakes and ponds, which are ideal for fishing. Pack your fishing gear and head to places like Little Monadnock Pond, Pratt Pond, or any of the other nearby bodies of water for a relaxing day of angling.

Photography: If you're a photography enthusiast, you'll find endless opportunities to capture the natural beauty of Mason. From scenic landscapes to charming farmhouses, this area offers stunning vistas year-round, with particularly vibrant foliage in the fall.

Visit Peterborough: Just a short drive from Mason, you'll find the town of Peterborough, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic downtown. Explore the shops, galleries,... Read MORE...

Discover YOUR Roots: Mason Ancestry

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

We currently have information about 9 ancestors who were born or died in Mason.

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Updated: 1/16/2025 10:58:00 AM