The Newfields Cemetery Trustees, the Newfields Garden Club, the Newfields Select Board and several Town residents have applied to the state for a historical marker to be placed along Exeter Road/Route 85 to commemorate the Hilton’s and their historic significance.
Recognizing that state funds are limited right now, under the state Division of Historic Resources they requested a marker under the state co-operative program, which means that we can get a marker done sooner if we raise the funds locally.
Here is the text of the marker to be placed—assuming approval by the NH Division of Historic Resources:
“After establishing a settlement in Cocheco (now Dover) a party of men led by Edward Hilton followed the Piscataqua River and settled in Newfields in the early 1630s. The foundation of Hilton’s first residence is preserved on the wooded path leading to the Hilton Burial Ground. The oldest surviving grave inscription is on the stone of Col. Winthrop Hilton who, circa 1700, built the Hilton Manse located at 92 Exeter Road. Col. Hilton was killed in 1710, in a fight with Indians on Mast Road leading out of Newfields to Epping.”
Help Raise Funds for the New Marker
To raise the funds needed for this project, the Newfields Community Fund organized a GoFundMe effort to collect the money. We hope that the community can come together and support this wonderful effort recognizing some of the important history of Newfields.
Please support this effort to place Newfields first historic marker and honor the Hilton family.
Donate at the GoFundMe link here: https://gofund.me/06d1007c
