About Portsmouth

A seaport since colonial times, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, has a rich and varied past. Portsmouth, with more than 20,000 inhabitants, blends that past into modern day living. An Englishman, John Mason, of Portsmouth England, county of Hampshire, established the village on the deep waters of the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor. Early settlers called it Strawberry Banke upon seeing the profusion of wild strawberries growing there. When incorporated in 1653, it became Portsmouth to honor its founder. Visitors to this charming city enjoy the best of both worlds.

This strategic location on the deep waters of the Piscataqua River and the protected Portsmouth Harbor led to enormous success in shipping both abroad and inland up the Piscataqua River. This seaport city has seen declines in prosperity over time. In 1807, the US embargo against Britain severely curtailed trade with Canada. More recent economic decline was evidenced by decay and blight. Today, it is again a bustling seaport with commercial shipping vessels, cruise ships, and private yachts moving in and out. This northern city has four seasons. Summer is delightful: warm days with an occasional hot spell. Brilliant autumn is cool and invigorating. Winter, the longest season, is cold and snowy with frequent heavy storms. Then comes spring with new life and welcome warmth. But visitors arrive in all seasons. The Portsmouth, New Hampshire yellow pages and Portsmouth, New Hampshire business directory offer resources to assist throughout the year.

Portsmouth attractions include colonial houses in English architectural style that grace many streets. Several authentically furnished historic houses operate as museums for tours. Mandated brick and slate buildings built around Market Square create a unique historic ambiance. Strawberry Banke Living Museum preserved history by moving Portsmouth period houses to its site. Many historic buildings survive because of the intervention of the Historic District Commission. Market Square remains the town's living center. Shopping in specialty stores, enjoying entertainment venues, and dining on delicious cuisine highlight a visit to the Square. A fine french bakery offers up breads, pastries, and main dishes. While dining al fresco on the Square's sidewalks, everyone participates in a favorite activity where people watching. Fine hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants. and shopping centers are available throughout the city. Two excellent resources for finding what you need are the Portsmouth, New Hampshire city directory and the Portsmouth, New Hampshire yellow pages which contain a wealth of detailed information to assist visitors and residents.

Written by Lyndsey Morgan