The history in New Hampshire is fascinating. Whether it’s remnants of the ice age or simply museums telling the stories of things that happened before we were here, it’s always fun to learn something new about the place many of us have called home for years. While we love the obvious history lessons, there’s something to be said for the places that have less information associated. The ruins of this deserted town are a great example.
Dating back to the 1730s, the former village of Monson in Hillsborough County was the state’s very first inland colony settled by Europeans.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
If you’d visited during its prime of about 50 years, you’d have found what is believed to have been a vibrant settlement with men, women and children building a life for themselves in the new country. But after those 50 years, the colony just disappeared without any real information related to why.
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Historians are still unsure what became of the settlers here, but remnants of their land and homes can still be seen. This photo captures a piece of someone’s home.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
This is a popular place to take in some of the state’s history. Walking among the paths here will reveal pieces of their early structures, including foundations and cellars.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
Currently maintained by the Forest Society, the area is a great place to enjoy some local nature while imagining what life might have been like for those who chose to make New Hampshire their home hundreds of years ago.
ebt68 / Flickr
In addition to history, there are also about 2.5-miles of trails to explore here. The original size of Monson was about 17,000 acres, but Monson Center today comprises about 269 acres.
ebt68 / Flickr
Visitors will enjoy informational placards along the way.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
There’s a reconstructed museum that holds photos and even the tax records of the former residents.
WeRmudfun / YouTube
Exploring each of the trails will take about two hours, which is well worth the time. In addition to lovely surroundings, it’s also fascinating to take in the history of the state. Especially when it’s a bit of a ghost town!
WeRmudfun / YouTube
To see more from this unique site, check out the YouTube video below!
WeRmudfun / YouTube
ebt68 / Flickr
Have you visited Monson Village and enjoyed the hikes? More interestingly, have you encountered anything that feels haunted along the way? We’ve heard conflicting reports, so curious to hear your experiences! Let us know in the comments.
And for more wonderful outdoor experiences with some history, we have some other ideas! These 4 trails in in New Hampshire will lead you to extraordinary amazing ruins.
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