Acworth

Acworth, New Hampshire is a charming rural town with a population of just over 850 residents. Nestled along the Connecticut River, this 39-square-mile town is surrounded by beautiful brooks, streams, and forests. This little farming town was granted township status in 1766, and 150 years later, Acworth remains a quiet and close-knit community, preserving the charm of its past while embracing the rhythms of rural life.

The Valley Church in South Acworth. Image Credit: Sharon Callum.

History of Acworth

This New Hampshire town was originally named after Sir Jacob Acworth, a former Royal Navy surveyor. When it was granted to its proprietors in 1766, Acworth was divided into 12 ranges running east to west and numbered from south to north. Although the Revolutionary War slowed its growth, the town’s population began to rise once the conflict ended. By 1810, Acworth’s population had reached 1,526, though it declined again during the Civil War. 

Although Acworth’s population remained small, local churches played a crucial role in bringing people together. These buildings served not only as places of worship but also as important social centers where community members could gather to sing, relax, and converse. Farmers, mill workers, and others would come together to socialize, while women used these occasions to establish important organizations, one being the Female Charitable Society, founded in 1816. This organization, dedicated to helping those in need, is still active today, continuing its mission of service and community support over time. While the religious affiliations of Acworth’s churches have evolved, they continue to serve as key social institutions in the community.

When Acworth’s population peaked in 1810, a significant portion of its residents were school-aged children. This prompted the small farming community to build numerous schoolhouses, and by 1850, the town had constructed enough to serve its 13 school districts. Many of these historic schoolhouses still stand today, serving as reminders of the town’s early social institutions. The need for schools to be close to families, due to the region’s historically harsh winters, fostered a sense of cohesion among the town’s communities. Although Acworth’s population now numbers fewer than 1,000, the legacy of its tight-knit past continues to add to the town’s charm.

Acworth Community Fun Facts

Geography Facts:

  • Total Area: 39.1 square miles
    • Water Coverage: Just 0.02 square miles (mostly land, but with a small water presence!)
  • Location: Acworth lies entirely within the Connecticut River Watershed, meaning its rivers ultimately feed into the mighty Connecticut River.
  • Fun Fact: The Northwest corner of Acworth drains north into the Little Sugar River—a unique feature of the town’s natural flow.
  • Highest Point: Acworth’s highest peak is Gove Hill, located in the northeast corner of town, standing at an impressive 1,939 feet above sea level. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Historical Insight: Much of Acworth’s development is centered around its rivers. In the past, mills along these waterways were the heart of the local economy, providing jobs and shaping the community’s growth.

Notable Residents:

  • Nedom L. Angier (1814–1882), mayor of Atlanta from ‘77 to ‘79
  • Perley Keyes (1774–1834), member of the New York Senate
  • Joseph Gardner Wilson (1826–1873), Oregon supreme court justice and US congressman
  • Urban A. Woodbury (1838–1915), Civil War veteran and the 45th governor of Vermont

Acworth’s Historic Floods

With Acworth’s numerous brooks and rivers, there have been several notable instances where heavy snowfall led to catastrophic floods. Though these floods caused significant damage to the town’s infrastructure, they also provided an opportunity for the community to come together and rebuild. Here are a few examples of such instances: 

The Great Flood of 1927

In early November of 1927, a powerful rainstorm rolled through, causing the Cold River to swell beyond its banks. From November 3rd to 5th, the river overflowed and poured onto the road that ran past Leon Newton’s farm, turning it into a muddy, impassable mess. At the same time, Crane Brook surged down Crane Brook Road, flooding the area and leaving behind widespread damage. In response to the destruction, the state allocated over $5,000—a hefty sum for the time—to repair the highway district in Acworth’s western area. Among those who took action was a local farmer named Glenn Bascom. Harnessing four of his horses, he set to work, hauling stones to fill in the worst washouts and spreading gravel across the worst-hit sections of the road. His hard work, along with the state’s funding, helped restore some of the flood-ravaged landscape, proving that even in the face of nature’s fury, the resilience of the Acworth community could shine through.

The Spring Flood of 1936

In March of 1936, Acworth was struck by another devastating flood, this time between the 12th and 19th. The combination of several feet of heavy snow melting on top of still-frozen ground created perilous conditions, causing the Cold River to overflow again. The floodwaters were so severe that even the school buses, the mail carrier, and the motorized stagecoach couldn’t make their way through the town—roads became completely impassable, halting the daily rhythm of life in Acworth. As the water rose and the landscape was submerged, the community took matters into their own hands. In a desperate bid to prevent further damage, residents used dynamite to blast massive icebergs out of the Cold River, hoping to break up the enormous ice dams that had formed and were blocking the flow of water. The brave, if unconventional, tactic was another testament to the town’s teamwork and resilience in the face of adversity. 

While these historic floods could have brought residents down, they instead pushed the community to upgrade its roads, develop new methods for dealing with natural disasters, and strengthen the bonds between its people. Through cooperation, shared hardship, and a collective drive to rebuild, Acworth not only survived these trials—it grew stronger, more unified, and better prepared for whatever nature might bring next.

Must-See Spots in Acworth: 

Bascom Maple Farms: 

If you’re ever driving through Acworth’s beautiful hills, be sure to swing by Bascom Maple Farms—a gem for maple syrup lovers! This family-run farm has been perfecting the art of maple syrup production for over 40 years, spanning seven generations of passionate syrup makers.

Back in March, Bascom hosted one of our #SugarRiverSocials, where they invited residents of the Sugar River Region to dive into the sweet tradition of sugaring. After an unforgettable tour of the farm—where visitors got an up-close look at the syrup-making process—participants enjoyed a delightful spread of maple treats to cap off the day. While the social event may have passed, it’s never too late to experience Bascom Farms for yourself!

When you stop by, make sure to check out their impressive showroom—an absolute must-see for anyone fascinated by the art of sugaring. With over 2,000 square feet of space packed with everything from tapping equipment to state-of-the-art syrup packaging machinery, Bascom is a powerhouse of sweet, sticky goodness. As one of the largest maple syrup producers in the region, it’s not just a stop—it’s an experience. Whether you’re curious about how sap turns into syrup or simply eager to stock up on some of the finest maple syrup around, a visit to Bascom Maple Farms is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a sweet taste of New England tradition.

March Sugar River Social Bascom’s Maple Syrup Jars. Image Credit: Madeline Ferland.

South Acworth Village Store:

The Acworth Village Store, located in the heart of South Acworth, is a community-run, non-profit general store. It was originally built as Union Hall in the aftermath of the Civil War, and the building has long served as a gathering place for public events, church services, and town fairs. The Village Store became the town’s last remaining store, and today it continues to serve as a hub for the community.

The store is owned by the Acworth Historical Society and continues its mission to serve the town’s everyday needs. It offers a variety of locally sourced products, as well as fresh meals made daily. It’s a place where residents and visitors can stock up on groceries, enjoy a hot meal, and connect with their neighbors.

The Acworth Village Store also hosts special events, such as Summer Saturdays, where the community can enjoy specialty dinners and live local music. More than just a place to shop, the store is a living piece of Acworth’s history—a gathering spot that keeps the town’s spirit of community alive and thriving for future generations.

Check out their Facebook for updates on events!

📍Located at: 1068 NH Route 123A, South Acworth, NH, United States, New Hampshire

South Acworth Village Store. Image Credit: Sullivan County Government.

His & Hers Farm: 

His & Hers Farm provide the ideal getaway for those looking to experience the calm of rural life. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet sunrise with a mug of locally brewed coffee, watching a breathtaking sunset, or spotting deer, a wandering moose, or even a black bear, His & Hers Farm offers a unique and exhilarating experience with every passing day.

Guests can explore the surrounding hills, visit the cows next door at Gowen’s Tamarack Farm, or lend a hand feeding the chickens. For those who prefer to unwind, there’s always a hammock beneath century-old apple trees, a perfect spot to relax with a good book. Wendy and Dean Gowen, the owners and operators of this historic property, have worked to preserve and enhance the farmhouse and barn, creating a welcoming environment where the charm of rural living is on full display.

Relocated from Buffalo, New York, in 2020, Wendy and Dean are excited to bring their dream of operating a country guesthouse and event venue to life. Wendy’s background in hospitality and business management, combined with Dean’s experience as a landscape architect and urban planner, has made His & Hers Farm a true labor of love. His & Hers Farm offers both seclusion and access to charming nearby communities. Here, the countryside’s natural beauty meets the warm comforts of home, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a quiet and memorable escape.

📍Located at: 561 NH-123A, Alstead, NH 03602 (Be sure to check their website for instructions on how to drive there.)

New England Mineral Museum 

Did you know that New England was once a thriving center for mining, with tons of deposits of mica, feldspar, and beryl? These minerals played an important role in the region’s history—especially during World War II, when they were essential to the war effort. At the New England Mineral Museum, you can dig into this fascinating past and uncover the stories behind the mines that helped fuel the nation’s industrial growth. Prepare to explore a hidden chapter of history that’s as valuable as the minerals themselves!

The museum, led by Jim Pecora, offers a unique, personal connection to the mining heritage of Acworth and the surrounding Monadnock Region. Jim’s passion for the area’s mining history began with his mother, who was born near a historic mining prospect just steps from Lake Warren. Over the years, Jim has dedicated himself to researching the region’s mining legacy—gathering firsthand accounts from the last surviving miners and mine owners, as well as combing through old government documents. His extensive research has revealed fascinating stories of the area’s mining boom.

The New England Mineral Museum is more than just a collection of rocks—it’s a living tribute to the region’s industrial past and the people who made it possible. By visiting and supporting the museum, you’re helping preserve this important piece of New Hampshire’s history. Come learn, explore, and honor the legacy of those who worked the land and shaped the future of the Granite State.

Visitor Information: 

Acworth offers a peaceful, rural escape, where the beauty of nature and a strong sense of community come together to create a welcoming environment for both visitors and potential new residents. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or considering a permanent move, Acworth’s close-knit, resilient community and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for anyone looking to slow down and enjoy a quieter pace of life.

Acworth Town Hall:

  • Website: Acworth Town Hall
  • Phone Number: (603) 835-6879
  • Address: 13 Town Hall Rd, Acworth, NH 03601
  • Services: has information of Acworth’s local government, as well as information on local events and other important information and resources. 

Acworth Town Clerk:

  • Website: Acworth Town Clerk
  • Phone Number: (603) 835-6879 
  • Hours: 
    • Wednesday 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 
    • Saturday 8:00 a.m. – noon
  • Address: 13 Town Hall Road, P.O. Box 37
  • Services: helpful for vehicle registrations, vital records, dog licenses, NH wetlands permits, voter registration, marriage/civil union licenses, certified copies of births, deaths and marriages, genealogy searches and information about Acworth in general.

Acworth Town Hall. Image Credit: Judy Aron.

Come Visit!

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or considering a place to call home, Acworth offers a unique blend of rural charm, rich history, and strong community spirit. Come visit, or perhaps stay a while, and experience firsthand what makes this small New Hampshire town so special.

 

Written by Lily Risk on November 21, 2024.