Historical New Hampshire, Volume 72, No. 1, Spring 2019

SKU: HNHSPRING2019

The New Hampshire Historical Society rounds out the celebrations of the 200th anniversary of the New Hampshire State House with the final installment of its special commemorative publication. The 96-page, full-color issue of Historical New Hampshire, entitled The People’s State House, explores the many ways in which the state house has come to symbolize the Granite State.

Although the chambers and corridors of the state house often bustle with legislative activity, the building and its grounds play a role in the life of New Hampshire that far exceeds their official governmental functions. In formal and informal ways—from political rallies to state funerals to boy scout campouts—the state house serves as the focal point for the Granite State, the place where we honor New Hampshire men and women who have led and inspired us. It has been the rallying point for people seeking to exercise their right to free expression as well as for those hoping to enjoy the solace of nature in the midst of a busy urban center. It has served as the backdrop for scenes of celebration and mourning, a meeting place for showing community spirit or political disagreement, a hallowed ground dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives on our behalf.

This issue covers the statues, monuments, and paintings dedicated to ordinary and extraordinary Granite Staters. It explores the story behind the Hall of Flags and recounts the many uses of the state house over the years, from baseball field and cow pasture in the 1800s to impromptu shrine dedicated to New Hampshire’s Teacher in Space Christa McAuliffe in 1986. The stories are populated with colorful characters, great efforts and terrible tragedy, and above all, with tales of the men and women who shaped our state.

Authors: Elizabeth Dubrulle and Wesley G. Balla, with contributions by Donna-Belle Garvin
Editor: Elizabeth Dubrulle
Illustrations Editor: Joan E. Desmarais
(Softcover)