Hill

Established in 1778, Hill is described as “peaceful and tranquil” by its residents. Sawmills, followed by grist mills, and finally a knitting needle factory was the source of income in 1872. Known as a very strong and determined group, back in 1938, after several years of flooding, residents decided to move the entire community (including 14 buildings) by railroad, winches and horses, to a spot above a flood control reservoir. By 1941, they had built a new town hall and school, streets, water systems and many houses. ‘A very strong and determined group’ of residents lived in Hill? Yes, I would say so! Some remnants of the old town can still be found if you explore surrounding areas. In 1943, the Army Corp of Engineers built the Franklin Falls Dam to keep the water at a certain level to avoid future flooding. Since then, Hill has remained safe from the water. Chester was its original name but the townsfolk renamed it Hill after Isaac Hill, one of the NH governors. (They felt that the name Chester was used in too many NE towns). William Thomas State Forest also makes its home here. With a quiet, 1700 acre forest, you will find solitude here.The lush wooded area offers double track trails for your enjoyment as well as beautiful surroundings.