OUR TOWNS: Chesterfield, NH Timeless Stone Buildings and Vast Vistas

Historic Chesterfield, New Hampshire, is often best known for its incredible stone architecture. &emsp;"It's special to drive to the center of Chesterfield and look at the historic granite buildings," says Pamela Walton, vice president of the Chesterfield Historical Society. &emsp;The building the Historical Society now occupies was actually the town's first library, built in 1934 with stone from the same quarry as many of the surrounding buildings. The town center also has the post office, which once served as a general store and dates back to 1850. Chesterfield's beloved school is nestled within the cozy village, and on the other side of the street lies something even many Monadnock Region locals haven't experienced — a stunning panorama. &emsp;"Look out across the land to several mountain ranges. The view is spectacular at sunset," Walton says. &emsp;It's just one of many quiet wonders tucked throughout this historic town. History buffs should take note of the 24 cemeteries, the oldest of which dates back to 1775. There are lots of fascinating threads for avid genealogists to explore. &emsp;Anyone intrigued by history will also be excited to hear that one of the town's most famous stone buildings, situated at the corner of Routes 9 and 63, is getting ready for a new chapter. &emsp;"The Stone House Tavern Museum is an iconic structure that has been used as a landmark for 100 plus years," says Val Starbuck, chair of the Museum Committee (Stewardship). &emsp;The Tavern's original owner and family have deep roots in town, and its history is intricately woven into the lives of many longtime residents. Starbuck says sharing about this, and other historic structures, will "help people understand how Chesterfield grew and the role it played in Southern New Hampshire." &emsp;Since 1831, the Tavern has served as a stagecoach stop, rooming house, tea house, lunch spot, and an antique and rare books store. Now, it has been lovingly transformed into a museum. Chesterfield Historical Society's President Harriet Davenport writes that the organization has been fortunate to "save a gem, not just for Chesterfield, but for the entire Monadnock Region." &emsp;The building's rare features include a ballroom on the second floor with an inverted hull ceiling, five cubicles on the third floor where stagecoach drivers slept, and a historic beehive oven that heated water in a large, built-in metal bowl. &emsp;"Now we've protected and preserved the building for future generations to enjoy as a museum with artifacts of the area and a walk back in time," Starbuck says. &emsp;Guests are invited to attend a soft opening in June, with two additional events in August. The museum will showcase how people in Chesterfield lived from 1831 to 1920 with specialized displays, including one focused on women's roles in Chesterfield through the ages and another celebrating Spofford Lake's history. &emsp;This seems fitting, as astounding outdoor landscapes have always been deeply tied to how people experience this special town. Lifelong resident James Pratt started spending his summer days at the lake when he was about 10, participating in a camp program run by the town's Parks and Recreation Department. &emsp;"It's an amazing place to go with family or friends, whether you want to just relax on the beach and swim or maybe play some volleyball or tetherball," he says. &emsp;And, of course, who could forget the ice cream? As a true local, Pratt's insider tip is to hit the snack shack for a cool, creamy treat before packing up the car. "It makes for a great day," he says. &emsp;Another one of his favorite natural spaces to explore is Pisgah State Park, which spans over 13,300 acres throughout several of the region's towns. Quiet, peaceful, and endlessly intriguing, there are possibilities for everyone. &emsp;"You can hear all the different birds singing and see wildlife scurrying through the woods," Pratt says. &emsp;For him, the best part is the wide range of trails offering varying levels of challenge. &emsp;"My personal favorite would be the Hubbard Hill Trail," he shares. It's a short hike with a steep incline toward the top, he notes, but the reward at the end is a beautiful vista looking out at the mountains in Vermont. &emsp;There are nearly too many incredible outdoor spots to choose from in this small Granite State town, but a few other popular destinations include the impressive Chesterfield Gorge, storied Madame Sherri Forest (once owned by an eccentric actress and socialite), and Friedsam Town Forest, a 220-acre piece of wooded land featuring multiple trails and parking areas. &emsp;After a beautiful hike, pop around town for a spirit at the Copper Cannon Distillery or grab a cone at The Village Creamery, both in West Chesterfield. And wrap up the day with a little browsing at The Serendipity House on Rt. 9, specializing in furniture, gifts, and home goods, as well as Route 9 Finds and Designs, a craft and gift store just next door in Spofford, which Chesterfield's own Karen Guyette runs. (Many in town may remember Karen's grandmother, Imogene Chickering, who was the Town Clerk for over 50 years!) And for an overnight stay with striking views, visit the Chesterfield Inn, with 15 rooms and suites, just off of Route 9 and minutes from the Connecticut River and Vermont border. The Inn also has a gourmet restaurant open to guests and the public. &emsp;Also, keep an eye out for special events as summer approaches. The library and the Chesterfield Historical Society both deliver a variety of compelling programs. In fact, this year, the Historical Society will be hosting Sheryl Fay, an acclaimed impersonator who will perform as Queen Elizabeth this coming July. Check local newspapers and calendars for more information as the season approaches. &emsp;Whether you're drawn by the history, natural beauty, or warm, welcoming community, Chesterfield offers countless ways to connect — with the land, the past and one another. BOX with Town Seal Chesterfield, NH Incorporated: 1752 County: Cheshire Land Acknowledgment: Pennacook N'dakina (Abenaki / Abénaquis) Wabanaki (Dawnland Confederacy) Population: 3,552 Elevation: 853 ft Area: 47.5 sq mi