New Hampshire is home to many quirky, unique, and sometimes downright odd town names that could leave your GPS (and you) scratching your head. Here are 11 town names from the Granite State that stand out for their peculiarity, humor, or historical significance:
1. Stark
Named after Revolutionary War hero General John Stark, this picturesque town in Coos County was once called Percy. It also holds historical significance as the site of New Hampshire’s only World War II prisoner-of-war camp.
2. Dummer
Despite its unfortunate-sounding name, this town honors William Dummer, a Massachusetts lieutenant governor. Its forests and the Pontook Reservoir make it a haven for nature lovers.
3. Dixville Notch
Known for its small population and humorous name, Dixville Notch is famous for being one of the first places to report election results during presidential primaries. Its unique name often raises eyebrows and smiles alike.
4. Henniker
Claiming the title of the “only Henniker on Earth,” this quaint town is known for its ski mountain, Pat’s Peak, and its charming small-town vibe.
5. Sandwich
This Lakes Region town shares its name with the Fourth Earl of Sandwich, who inspired the popular food item. Despite its amusing name, it’s known for its natural beauty and the annual Sandwich Fair.
6. Happy Corner
Located in Pittsburgh near the Canadian border, Happy Corner got its cheerful name from a local who hosted lively gatherings with music and dancing. It’s also home to one of New Hampshire’s oldest covered bridges.
7. Effingham
Effingham’s unusual name might sound amusing, but it’s historically significant as the site of America’s first normal school for teacher education in 1830.
8. Milan
Pronounced “My-lun” (unlike the Italian city), Milan stands out for its distinctive pronunciation and rural charm.
9. Noone
This oddly named township is pronounced like “noon.” Its uniqueness lies not just in its name but also in how it confuses those unfamiliar with local pronunciations.
10. Little Boars Head
A coastal village with a whimsical name, Little Boars Head is known for its scenic beauty and historic homes along New Hampshire’s Seacoast.
11. Hell Hollow
With a name that sounds straight out of folklore, Hell Hollow is a locality that sparks curiosity and perhaps a bit of trepidation among visitors.
These names reflect New Hampshire’s rich history, sense of humor, and penchant for standing out—whether intentionally or not!
Sources:
- https://granitepostnews.com/2025/01/16/the-strangest-new-hampshire-town-names/
- http://reallyweirdplacenames.blogspot.com/2013/05/new-hampshire.html
- https://shark1053.com/the-funniest-and-dirtiest-sounding-towns-in-new-hampshire/
- https://wokq.com/this-quaint-new-hampshire-town-is-the-only-town-on-earth-with-this-name/
- https://granitegeek.concordmonitor.com/2018/01/20/4626/