New Hampshire Nicknames | The Granite State

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New Hampshire, one of the original U.S. colonies and the first state to declare independence from England, is rich in history, yet often overlooked.

While it's famously known as the "Granite State," it has several other nicknames. Whether you're looking to learn more about this intriguing state or impress the locals, here are seven nicknames for New Hampshire and their histories. Continue reading to learn more!

7 Nicknames for New Hampshire

The Switzerland of America

Several New England states, particularly Vermont, are known as the "Switzerland of America" and this nickname also applies to New Hampshire. It stems from New Hampshire's mountainous landscape, which is reminiscent of the Swiss Alps.

The exact origin of this nickname is unclear, but it has gained popularity over the years, especially during snowy seasons. Today, it appears in tourism literature and on souvenirs, particularly in areas near New Hampshire's mountains. However, because it's a shared nickname, it doesn't appear in official government literature.

The Mother of Rivers

New Hampshire's nickname, the "Mother of Rivers," has appeared in historical texts written by geographers over the years. The name reflects that five major rivers in the eastern U.S. originate in New Hampshire: the Connecticut, Merrimack, Pemigewasset, Cocheco, and Salmon Falls Rivers.

Additionally, New Hampshire is part of the path for other rivers from neighboring regions. New Hampshire has embraced this nickname, which can be found on souvenirs, especially in areas near its rivers.

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The Queen State

The "Queen State" is a nickname for New Hampshire that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among writers. Interestingly, this moniker doesn't have a specific origin but refers to the state's remarkable beauty and history.

New Hampshire is also home to Manchester, known as the "Queen City," a name derived from it being the state's most populous city. While the "Queen State" is mainly found in books and written texts, it occasionally appears on souvenirs and brochures.

The White Mountain State

The nickname the "White Mountain State" comes from one of New Hampshire's most iconic landmarks, the White Mountain range. Although the range is primarily in New Hampshire, a small part extends into western Maine. This nickname was inspired by the range's most famous peak, Mount Washington, which, at 6,288 feet, is the tallest summit in the northeastern United States.

The "White Mountain State" nickname is commonly found in brochures and articles about the area's landscape and outdoor activities, as well as on souvenirs and postcards.

The 603

New Hampshire is a relatively small state in terms of both land area and population. Because of its size, only one area code, 603, is needed to cover all phone numbers in the state.

Although area codes were introduced in 1947, the "603" has gained popularity as a nickname for New Hampshire in recent years, particularly among younger residents. This casual term isn't commonly found in official texts, but you might see it on souvenirs or hear it in casual conversation.

The Granite State

The official New Hampshire nickname, the "Granite State," was first recorded in 1825 in a poem and song by Philip Carrigan. However, given the state's natural granite deposits, the nickname may have been used informally before then.

The nickname quickly gained popularity and has remained the most commonly used moniker for New Hampshire. It appears in both official and unofficial texts, as well as on souvenirs like postcards and magnets, and even in business names across the state.

Winter Wonderland

The nickname "Winter Wonderland" is shared by several places in the Northeastern U.S., including New Hampshire. Its snowy climate and mountainous landscape make it a popular East Coast skiing destination, which helped inspire the name.

While not officially recognized by the state, the nickname is widely used by businesses in the tourism industry, such as hotels and travel agencies. It also appears in articles about the state's outdoor activities. However, it's mostly a seasonal term, rarely used outside of winter.

In Summary

Despite its small size and population, New Hampshire has a rich history reflected in its diverse nicknames. Some, like the "Granite State," are well-known, while others, like the "Queen State," are less frequently used. Hopefully, this article has highlighted New Hampshire's unique charm and given you a nickname or two to use on your next visit!

This article was edited by Loredana Gogoescu.

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