Is Wolfeboro NH the Oldest Summer Resort?

By Michael Ferguson

Wolfeboro, located in New Hampshire, is known for its beautiful lakefront and charming small-town feel. But did you know that it is also considered as the oldest summer resort in America? Let’s dive deeper into why Wolfeboro holds this title.

History of Wolfeboro

Wolfeboro was founded in 1759 and was named after General Wolfe, a British military officer who played a significant role in the capture of Quebec during the Seven Years’ War. The town is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, which has been a popular destination for tourists since the mid-19th century.

The Beginnings of Summer Tourism

During the 19th century, wealthy families from Boston and New York City began spending their summers in rural areas to escape the heat and pollution of the city. They would often rent homes or stay at boarding houses near lakes or beaches.

The Cottage Industry

In Wolfeboro, this trend led to the development of what became known as “the cottage industry.” Wealthy families from cities would build grand summer homes on Lake Winnipesaukee’s shoreline. Some families even built multiple cottages to accommodate their extended family and friends.

The Oldest Summer Resort

One such family was the Tuftonboro-based Goodwin family. In 1860, John Goodwin Jr. built a large summer home on Wolfeboro’s waterfront.

This sparked interest from other wealthy families who were looking to escape city life during summers. They were attracted to Wolfeboro’s natural beauty and its location on Lake Winnipesaukee.

As more families started spending their summers in Wolfeboro, it became known as a summer resort destination. Today, Wolfeboro still attracts visitors from all over with its charming downtown area, beautiful lake views, and historic homes.

Conclusion

While there are other towns and cities that claim to be the oldest summer resort in America, Wolfeboro’s history and reputation as a summer destination make it a strong contender for this title. Its cottage industry, which began in the mid-19th century, paved the way for the town’s development as a summer resort. And today, visitors can experience the beauty and charm that attracted those early vacationers to Wolfeboro.