Collections of the New Hampshire Historical Society

1892 Map of New Hampshire

The Collections of the New Hampshire Historical Society is a 15 publication series documenting the state’s history through various primary sources, including manuscripts, letters, and public records. It collates valuable narratives that were previously difficult to access, providing insight into events, individuals, and communities in New Hampshire. Each volume offers focused topics and historical analyses, and most volumes contain individual indexes.

Biography of John Evans Robertson

John Evans Robertson, born in Warner, N.H. in 1843, was a prominent ice dealer in Concord. After attending local schools and briefly engaging in the produce business in Montreal, he returned to Warner due to health issues. He later moved to Concord, where he managed the National Savings Bank before establishing a successful coal, wood, and ice business. A dedicated public servant, he served as the second Democratic Mayor of Concord and held several positions in local government. He married Martha F. Paige and had three children.

Biography of Walter Sargent

Walter Sargent, born on December 25, 1837, in Warner, N.H., emerged as a prominent and innovative farmer in Merrimack County. He descended from English naval officer Richard Sargent, an early settler in New England. Walter was raised in a farming environment and showed academic promise, later teaching briefly. He operated his family farm, enhancing its value, while actively engaging in local governance and agricultural organizations. Married twice, his home at Elm Farm became known for its hospitality until he and his wife shifted to hosting only close friends and family.

Biography of Edmund Silver

Edmund Silver, born on September 10, 1834, in Bow, N.H., was raised in a large family and began working on farms from a young age. After stints in various towns, he settled in Boscawen, where he purchased a 65-acre farm and operated a milk business. Silver married Lydia Ann Kimball in 1858, and they had three children, with two surviving him. Known for his hard work and success, he held positions such as Highway Surveyor and gained respect in the community as a self-made man.

Biography of Edward Plummer Paige

Edward Plummer Paige, born in Bradford, N.H., in 1857, was a notable figure in Dunbarton. The son of Bayard P. and Louisa S. Paige, he began his career as a clerk in his brother’s store before venturing into stove-making. His business acumen led him to Boston, working with Leach & Gilmore, which operated steamboats until competition from Vanderbilt forced their exit. Later, he thrived in Montreal manufacturing farming implements before returning to Dunbarton, where he lived until his death at eighty-four, leaving behind six children.

Biography of Stephen C. Pattee

Stephen C. Pattee, born in 1828 in Warner, New Hampshire, hails from a distinguished lineage that traces back to Sir William Pattee. After receiving an education in local schools, he dedicated twenty years to teaching while also managing his family’s long-held farm, Maple Grange. An accomplished agriculturist, he specialized in dairy and horse breeding, gaining recognition for his contributions, including awards at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Active in local politics and community service, Pattee married Sally Currier and had three sons, all of whom pursued notable careers.

Biography of Albert P. Davis

Albert P. Davis, born in 1835 in Waterloo, N.H., was a prominent figure in Warner, known for his legal career and civic contributions. Coming from a lineage of skilled craftsmen and farmers, he took over the family farm after his father’s death, later establishing a successful law practice that specialized in pension law. Davis actively supported educational initiatives, served in various public offices, and was instrumental in founding a public library and water works. He was married to Lavona Harvey and had two children, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to community welfare and reform.

Biography of Walter Scott Davis

Walter Scott Davis, born on July 29, 1834, in Warner, New Hampshire, was a prominent millowner and inventor who contributed significantly to local industry. He honed his skills in mathematics and ingenuity from a young age, eventually partnering in various ventures such as a lumber business and a straw board mill. Davis became known for his inventive capabilities, securing several patents. A dedicated public servant, he held various political offices, including State Senator. Married to Dollie Jones, he faced tragedy with the loss of four children but remained a respected figure in his community.

Biography of Frederick Myron Colby

Frederick Myron Colby, born on December 9, 1848, in Warner, New Hampshire, descends from Anthony Colby, a Puritan settler of 1630. A self-taught scholar, he became a prolific writer, publishing numerous novels, poems, and articles on historical topics. Notable works include *The Daughter of Pharaoh* and *The Pioneers of Kentucky*. Colby actively contributed to his community as Town Treasurer, Postmaster, and a trustee of the Pillsbury Library. Married to Hannah Maria George, he remains a respected figure in local history and literature.

Biography of Fred Bean

Fred Bean married Frances A. Robbins in 1877 and took over the Robbins homestead, continuing the sheep-raising business. He operated a thriving dairy and engaged in horse breeding while contributing to local enterprises, including the Warner Glove Factory and the Farmers Fair Association. Active in Masonry, Bean served in various leadership roles and was a Selectman and State Representative, focusing on insurance and town matters. The Beans, who are active in their Baptist church, have one daughter, Stella May.

Biography of William W. Watkins, M. D.

Dr. William W. Watkins, born in 1846 in New Hampshire, is a noted physician with a long-standing commitment to his community in Moscow. After graduating from Washington University in St. Louis in 1872, he practiced medicine in various locations, eventually becoming a prominent figure in Moscow with a significant medical practice. Active in civic affairs, he was a founding member and first president of the Idaho State Medical Society and served in multiple community roles. He is also a dedicated family man and member of the First Presbyterian Church.