Gilmanton Historical Society
Preserving and presenting the history, artifacts, and culture of Gilmanton, New Hampshire
WELCOME
Gilmanton was incorporated in 1727. Its charter was signed on May 20, 1727 by the King’s Colonial governor, John Wentworth. The town was granted to 177 persons for services rendered to the Crown. All received land grants in the new town. Twenty four of these original proprietors were members of the Gilman family, many of whom resided in Exeter at the time. Because of the number of Gilmans, the town was originally called Gilmantown, later shortened to Gilmanton. At one time it was the second largest town in New Hampshire, following Portsmouth, and originally included what are now the towns of Belmont and Gilford.
Map of Gilmanton dated 1808, based on a previous 1772 map. Click the image to open a scalable PDF map.
The Gilmanton Historical Society, founded in 1967, is committed to celebrating and preserving the history of this place and its people. The Society is run by volunteers and funded by membership dues, donations, and proceeds from the sale of books and other publications. Donations to the Society are exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the internal revenue code.
WHAT'S NEW FOR 2025
RECENT ACQUISITIONS
Receiving donations of historic artifacts is critical to our mission and helps ensure their preservation and public access. Contributing to the Society’s collection doesn’t have to involve a transfer of ownership. This works for individuals who wish to retain important family items. In these cases, we work with the owner to identify and document items of significance. For more information, email us at: info@gilmantonhistoricalsociety.org.
Threshing Machine donated by Anne Sellin
Gilmanton Hills (I.W.) Fire Dept & Local Business Directory 1950 donated by Bob Tibbetts
“Lone Rider” Puzzle of High St. 1970’s donated by John Dickey
OTHER NEWS
Gilmanton’s Tricentennial (1727-2027) is two years away!
Plans are underway for Gilmanton’s Tricentennial. Selectmen Vinnie Biochetti is coordinating the effort with local organizations and townsfolk. Want to get involved? Reach out to the Town at:
https://gilmanton300.com/
DIGITIZING OUR COLLECTION
Thanks to the ongoing support of the Maher Family Foundation, the process of digitizing our collection continues.
OUR PROGRAMS AND MUSEUMS
Every summer we host a series of programs that bring history to Gilmanton. The Society also presents at least one program annually that focuses on an aspect of Gilmanton’s history. Click here to view our planned 2025 events.
The Historical Society offers two museums in Gilmanton – the Historical Society Museum in the lower level of the Old Town Hall in Gilmanton Iron Works and the Gilmanton Farm Museum. Click here to learn more about the museums.
Gilmanton Historical Society Museum
The Gilmanton Farm Museum