One of the original 13 colonies and one of the six states of New England, New Hampshire is known by many nicknames: the Granite State, for its plentiful granite quarries and formations; the White Mountain State, for the beautiful White Mountain Range; Switzerland of America, for its natural beauty; and the Mother of Rivers, for its role as the place of origin of the rivers of New England. New Hampshire is also known internationally for the New Hampshire Primary, the first primary election in the quadrennial election cycle and often the most decisive.
      New Hampshire is one of the smallest states, ranked 46th in area with 9,359 square miles. It is bordered on the north and northwest by Quebec, Canada, and on other sides by Maine, the Atlantic Ocean, Massachusetts and Vermont. It has the shortest coastline in the U.S. with only 18 miles. The state's north-central area is spanned by the White Mountains, a source of much natural beauty and tourist revenue. Mount Washington is the tallest mountain in the northeastern states and has recorded some of the strongest winds and coldest temperatures in the continental United States. New Hampshire is also home to other natural splendors, including part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, extensive woodlands, over 40 rivers and over 1,300 lakes and ponds.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: The Granite State State Capital: Concord State Flower: Purple Lilac State Bird: Purple Finch

      New Hampshire's over 1.3 million residents enjoy all four seasons, but sometimes experience wide variations in weather, including short, cool summers and long, cold winters. Residents will, however, argue that the state's fall foliage rivals the most glorious in New England.
      The state's varied attractions appeal to young and old alike. Outdoor enthusiasts have the White Mountains, nature trails, cave exploration and over 90 golf courses. New Hampshire is a popular New England skiing destination and also offers summer cottages along its many lakes.

Although the state has only one professional sport team, there are many minor league teams. Additionally, the New Hampshire Speedway is home to the Loudon Classic, the nation's longest running motorcycle race.
      New Hampshire holds a strong place in America's ancient and modern history. Possibly the oldest man-made structure in the United States, "America's Stonehenge" is an over-4,000-year-old structure located in Salem that has been proven to be an accurate astronomical calendar, much like the European Stonehenge. Ghost tours in Portsmouth, a Shaker village in Canterbury and countless museums and historical sites abound throughout the state. New Hampshire also caters to active urbanites, with numerous cultural and entertainment opportunities, ranging from the state opera to thousands of galleries and antique shops to night clubs and first-class restaurants.       Education is highly valued in the state and New Hampshire is proud to be home to Dartmouth, an Ivy League institution, as well as over 20 other colleges and universities, including the University of New Hampshire and Daniel Webster College. The University of New Hampshire is the only public institution in the country to rank in the top 10 in the number of Fulbright fellowship recipients.

      The state is also attractive to residents because it ranks as the 49th state in combined average state and local tax burden. New Hampshire has no sales or personal income tax, although it does tax income from dividends and interest and its government advocates a frugal budget. This combination attracts commuters, light industry, retail customers, service firms and specialty horticulture. The state's largest employers tend to be health systems and universities, although its main industries include tourism along with manufacturing rubber, plastic and machinery. There is also some agricultural output, including dairy products, cattle, apples and eggs.
      The easiest way to reach New Hampshire by air is Logan Airport in Boston, New England's largest airport and only an hour from the state. You can also use Manchester Airport, the state's largest. The easiest way to explore the state once you arrive is by car, as there is no statewide transportation system. Interstates 89, 93 and 95 provide access to most parts of the state.
      Although many Americans outside of New Hampshire remain unaware of its many wonderful attributes, the state's residents know exactly why Morgan Quitno Press has named it the Most Livable State for three years in a row. Its natural beauty, low unemployment and crime rates, high levels of household income and importance placed on education have earned New Hampshire this coveted position time and time again, and the state only continues to improve in quality of life.