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February 2021 NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM Page 5
Hebron’s Historic Marker Can Be a Stepping Stone
By donna rhodes
HEBRON – In the heart of Hebron Village there lies a dis- tinctive green sign, indicative of some of the history related to the scenic town. What most may not realize though is that that road- side marker will not only intro- duce them to one of Hebron’s more famous residents, but it
The deeds of former N.H. Gov. Nathaniel Berry are commem- orated on an historic state marker in Hebron Village, one of more than 250 such markers that depict the fascinating history of the state. PHOTO BY DONNA RHODES
can also be a stepping stone for those who want to enjoy an ad- venturous ride, learn more about the State of New Hampshire, or further educate children who are now dealing with remote learning.
Hebron’s official N.H. historic roadside marker, one of more than 255 found throughout the state, pays tribute to former res- ident Gov. Nathaniel Berry who led the state through the trying times of the Civil War.
Berry served two terms as gov- ernor of New Hampshire, span- ning the years 1861-1863. During that time he signed a letter backed by 22 governors, lending his support to providing additional soldiers for the war effort. He fur- ther lent his support to the famous Emancipation Proclamation in 1863.
Gov. Berry began his political career as a Democrat while serv- ing as a representative and senator in the N.H. Legislature. However, he was in later opposition to the party’s support for slavery. In the 1850’s, he decided to change his alliance to the Republican Party, through which he later served as governor.
Prior to his political career, Berry apprenticed in the leather goods industry. At one time he owned a tannery in Bristol, which
he later relocated to Hebron. Un- fortunately, that factory was even- tually destroyed in a fire.
In addition to his role as gov- ernor and local business owner, Berry also served throughout the years as a member of several reg- iments in the New Hampshire militia where he was eventually promoted to the rank of Colonel.
Gov. Berry passed away in 1894 at the age of 94 and was laid to rest in Bristol’s Homeland Cemetery.
While the history of Hebron’s governor is interesting enough, there is much more to be learned while visiting other historic road- side markers in the state. Locally, people can discover more about places like Smith Covered Bridge in Plymouth, Blair Covered Bridge in Campton, Daniel Web- ster’s birthplace in Franklin or even how the entire Town of Hill made it’s historic march up from the Pemigewasset River bank- ing to it’s current location along Rte. 3A. Even a Native American archeological site in Tilton and information about Holderness resident Samuel Livermore’s role in the Revolutionary War are all just a tap of the brakes away as people cruise the scenic roads of New Hampshire.
Looking for a longer ride? Check out the numerous markers in the state capitol, visit Dixville Notch’s “First in the Nation” marker, or hunt down the multi- tude of roadside markers along the sea coast where settlers first landed and began to build the great state we all live in today. People can even learn of a former German Prisoner encampment in Stark, or visit Clarksville and stand halfway between the North Pole and the Equator on the 45th Parallel.
The fresh air and beautiful scenery make searching for these historical markers a fun and sometimes challenging past time that can be enjoyed either alone or as a family. Photos of each marker can also be a perfect way to commemorate the adventures or even add to a child’s history lessons.
Although more markers con- tinue to join the rolls of our state’s historic remembrances, in 2018 New Hampshire author Michael A. Bruno wrote a comprehensive book about each of the markers
listed at that time, complete with directions on how to find them. Besides being a great read, the book details the inscription on each marker and includes addi- tional information on its signifi- cance in history. “Cruising New
Hampshire History” is on sale at local book stores and available online as well.
The State of New Hampshire also has a website, www.nh.gov/ nhdhr/markers, that provides in- formation and directions to many
of the sites.
Heading out to find these road-
side markers and learning more about New Hampshire can be an historic journey for people of all ages. Happy Trails!
to More Adventures in New Hampshire
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