Rindge New Hampshire

History of Rindge New Hampshire

Second Meeting House in Rindge New Hampshire

The History of the Town of Rindge, New Hampshire by Ezra S. Stearns, was published in 1875, and covers the period from the original Rowley Canada grant or Massachusetts charter through the year 1874. Stearns traces the legal, territorial, and institutional development of Rindge, beginning with colonial land grants and boundary disputes and proceeding through settlement, incorporation into a town and development into a small manufacturing hub. More than half the volume is devoted to genealogical material. The genealogical register of Rindge families includes thousands of names compiled from a wide range of sources and assisted by contributions from residents and researchers beyond the town.

Biography of Reverend Samuel Goddard

Samuel Goddard, born in Sutton, Massachusetts, on July 6, 1772, faced limited educational opportunities and initially worked in trade before pursuing a religious vocation. Studying under Doctor Seth Payson, he was ordained in 1809 as pastor of a small church in Concord, Vermont, where he expanded the congregation significantly and established missionary work. In 1822, he became pastor of the North Congregational Church in Norwich, Vermont, growing its membership and promoting community welfare. Goddard was known for his devotion, despite personal losses and health challenges, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Biography of Hon. Ezra Scollay Stearns

Hon. Ezra Scollay Stearns, born September 1, 1838, in Rindge, New Hampshire, served as Secretary of State from 1891, demonstrating exceptional qualifications. His lineage includes distinguished connections to the Colonial Fitch family, and he has a rich educational background from public schools and Chester Institute. Stearns was influential in the Republican Party and served multiple terms in the New Hampshire legislature. An accomplished writer, he authored notable local histories and actively participated in various historical societies, earning a Master of Arts from Dartmouth in 1887.