Newport, New Hampshire
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| Newport, New Hampshire | |
|---|---|
| Name | Newport, New Hampshire |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Coordinates | 43, 21, 55, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | New Hampshire |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Sullivan |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | 1761 |
| Government type | Town meeting |
| Leader title | Select Board |
| Leader name | Jeffrey Kessler (Chair), Paul R. Brown, Richard O. O'Shaughnessy |
| Area total km2 | 100.0 |
| Area land km2 | 98.8 |
| Area water km2 | 1.2 |
| Elevation m | 249 |
| Elevation ft | 817 |
| Population total | 6077 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 03773 |
| Area code | 603 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 33-51700 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0873686 |
| Website | www.newportnh.gov |
Newport, New Hampshire is a town in Sullivan County situated along the Sugar River. Chartered in 1761, it developed as a regional commercial and manufacturing center, later becoming known for its production of air rifles and carpenter's squares. The community retains a historic downtown centered on the Newport Opera House and serves as a gateway to nearby recreational areas like Mount Sunapee.
History
The area was originally part of a grant by Governor Benning Wentworth in 1761, named for Francis Newport, though settlement was delayed by the French and Indian War. Early pioneers included veterans of Rogers' Rangers and conflicts like the Battle of Bunker Hill. Incorporated in 1761, the town grew around water-powered mills on the Sugar River, fostering industries in textiles, furniture, and machinery. The arrival of the Concord and Claremont Railroad in the 19th century spurred further growth, connecting local factories to wider markets. Notable 20th-century manufacturers included the Crosman Corporation, founded by John R. Crosman, and the Eagle Square Company, whose tools were used in constructing landmarks such as the United States Capitol and Mount Rushmore. The town is part of the Upper Valley region and has been home to figures like Maxfield Parrish, who maintained a studio at The Oaks.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 100.0 square kilometers, of which 98.8 square kilometers is land and 1.2 square kilometers is water. Newport is drained by the Sugar River, which flows into the Connecticut River nearby. The town contains several villages, including Guild and Kelleyville, and is bordered by the towns of Sunapee, Springfield, Croydon, Goshen, Washington, and Unity. Nearby geographic features include High Pond and Muzzey Hill, while the Appalachian Trail passes through adjacent regions.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 6,077 people residing in the town. The population density was approximately 61.5 persons per square kilometer. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations identifying as African American, Native American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino. The median household income was below the average for New Hampshire, and a portion of the population lived below the Federal Poverty Level. Educational attainment data from the American Community Survey shows a range of high school and bachelor's degree holders.
Economy
Historically dominated by manufacturing, the economy now features a mix of healthcare, retail, and light industry. Major employers include Sugar River Bank and the Newport School District. The former Crosman Corporation plant was a significant employer for decades, producing products like the Model 1377 air pistol. The downtown area, part of the Newport Historic District, supports local businesses and restaurants. The town also benefits from tourism related to proximity to Mount Sunapee Resort and Lake Sunapee, with services catering to visitors and seasonal residents.
Government and infrastructure
Newport operates under a Town meeting form of government with an elected Board of Selectmen. The town provides essential services through departments like the Newport Police Department and the Newport Fire Department. Public education is managed by the Newport School District, which includes Newport Middle High School. Infrastructure includes municipal water and sewer systems, and the town is traversed by state routes such as Route 10 and Route 11. The town is part of New Hampshire's Executive Council District 2 and is represented in the New Hampshire House of Representatives within the Sullivan County district.
Culture and recreation
The cultural heart of the community is the restored Newport Opera House, a venue for performances and events. The Richards Free Library, a Carnegie library, serves as a central public institution. Annual events include the Old Home Day celebration and the Sullivan County Fair. Outdoor recreation is supported by the Sugar River Rail Trail, the Newport Recreation Department, and nearby state parks like Winslow State Park. The town is home to the Newport Historical Society museum and is near the Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in Cornish. Local media includes the Eagle Times newspaper.
Category:Towns in New Hampshire Category:Towns in Sullivan County, New Hampshire Category:Populated places established in 1761 Category:1761 establishments in New Hampshire