Loading map...

1927 Map of Penacook

Name: 1927 Topographic Map of Penacook
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1939
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1939

About this map

The confluence of the Merrimack River and Contoocook River at Penacook serves as the focal point for this 1920s topography, illustrating the transition from industrial river towns to upland rural districts. The Boston and Maine RR corridors define the transport network, connecting significant settlements like Franklin Falls, Boscawen, and Northfield. Educational and civic life is remarkably dense across the hills, with dozens of local institutions such as the Kezer Seminary and Blanchard School serving established communities.

Agricultural and early industrial landmarks are scattered throughout the terrain, from Snyders Mill to the County Farm and Soldiers Home near Tilton. The map also captures the early recreational footprint of the region, evidenced by Contoocook River Park and Forest Vale Camp near Webster Lake. These details provide a clear view of the Merrimack Valley’s social geography before mid-century suburbanization altered the traditional village and district school patterns.