Belknap County: Granite State's Lakeside Gem
An immersive exploration of New Hampshire's picturesque Belknap County, from its natural wonders to its rich history and governance. Discover the heart of the Lakes Region.
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County Overview
Heart of the Lakes Region
Belknap County is a county situated in the U.S. state of New Hampshire, nestled within the scenic Lakes Region. Established in 1840, it was named in honor of Jeremy Belknap, a prominent preacher and historian. The county seat and largest city is Laconia. Its geography is defined by numerous lakes, including a significant portion of Lake Winnipesaukee, and the rolling Belknap Mountains, offering abundant recreational opportunities.
Vibrant Attractions
Belknap County is renowned for its cultural and recreational attractions. The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford hosts major national music acts, while the annual Laconia Motorcycle Week draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each June. Weirs Beach is home to Funspot Family Fun Center, recognized as the world's largest video game arcade, making the county a popular destination.
Population Snapshot
As of the 2020 census, Belknap County had a population of 63,705 residents. The county's population density stands at approximately 158.5 individuals per square mile. It forms the Laconia, NH Micropolitan Statistical Area and is part of the larger Boston-Worcester-Providence, MA-RI-NH-CT Combined Statistical Area.
Historical Foundations
Genesis of the County
Belknap County was officially organized in 1840. Its formation involved the detachment of territory from the northeastern part of Merrimack County and the northwestern section of Strafford County. The county is named in tribute to Dr. Jeremy Belknap, a distinguished clergyman and historian celebrated for his comprehensive work, The History of New Hampshire. The initial county court sessions were held in Meredith, specifically at Meredith Bridge on the Winnipesaukee River, before the town of Laconia was established in 1855.
Geographic Landscape
Area and Waterways
Belknap County encompasses a total area of approximately 469 square miles (1,210 km2). Of this, about 400 square miles (1,000 km2) consist of land, with the remaining 68 square miles (180 km2) being water, representing about 14.5% of its total area. This makes it the second-smallest county in New Hampshire by land area. A significant portion of its water surface is attributed to Lake Winnipesaukee, the state's largest lake.
Natural Features
The county's topography is characterized by the Belknap Mountains, which run along the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. Notable peaks include Mount Major, popular for hiking, and Gunstock Mountain, home to a well-known ski resort. These natural features contribute significantly to the county's appeal for outdoor recreation and tourism.
Adjacent Territories
Belknap County shares its borders with several other New Hampshire counties, facilitating regional connectivity and interaction:
- To the north: Carroll County
- To the east: Strafford County
- To the southwest: Merrimack County
- To the northwest: Grafton County
Demographic Profile
Population Trends
Belknap County has experienced consistent population growth over the decades. From a population of 17,721 in 1850, it grew to 63,705 by the 2020 census, marking a 6.0% increase from 2010. The population density reflects a mix of urban centers and more rural areas.
Ancestry and Diversity
The demographic makeup of Belknap County is predominantly of European ancestry. In 2020, the racial composition was 96.6% White, with smaller percentages of Asian (1.2%), Black or African American (0.5%), and Native American (0.2%) populations. Hispanic or Latino individuals constituted 1.2% of the population. Common ancestries reported include English, Irish, Italian, German, and French Canadian.
Economic Indicators
The median household income in Belknap County was approximately $54,929 in 2010, with families earning a median of $64,875. The per capita income was $28,517. A small percentage of families, around 5.2%, and 8.6% of the population lived below the poverty line during the same period.
Governance and Politics
County Administration
The executive authority of Belknap County is vested in a three-member County Commission, with each commissioner representing one of the county's three districts. The current commissioners are Peter Spanos (Chair), Glen Waring (Vice Chair), and Stephen Hodges, all affiliated with the Republican Party. Additionally, five other officialsโCounty Attorney, Register of Deeds, County Sheriff, Register of Probate, and County Treasurerโare directly elected.
Political Landscape
Belknap County exhibits a strong Republican leaning, consistently voting Republican in presidential elections for much of its history. While Democrats have occasionally carried the county, particularly in national landslides like 1964 and 2008, the Republican Party typically holds a majority of seats in the state legislature representing the county. This trend highlights a conservative political inclination within the region.
Legislative Representation
The county's legislative voice in the New Hampshire House of Representatives is represented by 18 members across nine districts. As of the 2022 elections, the Republican Party holds a significant majority, with 15 representatives compared to 3 Democrats, reflecting the county's political leanings.
Communities and Settlements
Cities and Towns
Belknap County is comprised of one city and ten towns, each contributing to the county's unique character. The county seat, Laconia, serves as its primary urban center. The towns offer a blend of rural charm and lakeside living, attracting residents and visitors alike.
Census-Designated Places & Villages
Beyond the official towns, Belknap County includes several Census-Designated Places (CDPs) and villages that function as distinct communities. These areas often share characteristics with the larger towns they are associated with, providing localized hubs within the county.
Further Exploration
Historic Register
Explore the architectural and historical significance of the region by reviewing the list of properties within Belknap County that are recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. These sites offer insights into the county's past.
Historic Places ๐๏ธLegal Precedent
Delve into significant legal cases associated with the county, such as Rosenblatt v. Baer (1966), a U.S. Supreme Court case involving a former employee of Belknap County, which set important precedents regarding defamation and public figures.
Legal Case โ๏ธTeacher's Corner
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not official government advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation with local government officials, historians, or geographers. Always refer to official sources for definitive information.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.