Month: August 2019

Bethlehem, New Hampshire was a hot bed of activity in the early 20th century. A major train hub for the nearby White Mountain attractions tourists flocked to the area. The advent of easy automobile travel spelled the end of the rail tourist golden age.
The Teddy Roosevelt Trail ran from Maine to Oregon became the preferred route for tourists in the early days of the motorcar. NH Route 302 was a part of this trail. After floods in 1927 many bridges had to be constructed quickly. The pierce bridge was an example of the riveted steel construction used. The poorly maintained bridge is nearby and is only open to pedestrians.

There were several sects of Odd Fellows fraternities that arose in the United Kingdom in the 18th and 19th centuries. In addition to recreational activities the Odd Fellows are know for their philanthropy, the ethic of reciprocity and charity. The first lodge in the United States was founded in 1819. This lodge in Hooksett was formed in 1876 and was in operation until it was destroyed by a flood in 1936. The land was donated to the town and is now the location of a Veterans Memorial Park.