ALTON

Alton began as New Durham Gore and was first settled circa 1770 by farmers drawn to its frost-resistant rocky highlands. Later merchants settled the valleys and began to advocate for formal town status. This led to the incorporation of Alton on January 15, 1796, it's name derived from a small market town in Hampshire, England. In 1847, Alton shifted from farming toward industry and rail service via the Cochecho Railroad, which connected Alton to the seacoast and supported tourism. The town joined Belknap County in 1840 and remains a popular resort community and summer destination to present day.