Endicott Rock facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Endicott Rock
|
|
The rock's enclosure
|
|
 Location in New Hampshire
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Weirs Channel, Laconia, New Hampshire |
|---|---|
| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1652 |
| Website | Endicott Rock State Historic Site |
| NRHP reference No. | 80000264 |
| Added to NRHP | May 28, 1980 |
Endicott Rock is a special rock and a small state park located in Weirs Beach, a village within Laconia, New Hampshire. It sits right on the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. What makes this rock famous is that it has letters carved into it from way back in 1652. These carvings were made by people exploring for the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The rock is important because it shows one of the earliest times Europeans came into this part of New Hampshire.
Contents
Discovering Endicott Rock
For many years, nobody knew exactly where Endicott Rock was. It was hidden until the 1800s when the Weirs Channel was dug deeper. That's when the rock was found again!
Protecting a Piece of History
Once it was rediscovered, the state of New Hampshire decided to protect this important historical marker. They built a special roof, called a pavilion, over the rock to shield it from weather. They also fixed cracks in the rock using iron pieces to make sure it stayed strong.
What the Carvings Say
The letters carved into the rock include "IOHN ENDICUT GOV." This refers to John Endecott, who was the governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony at that time. The rock also has the initials of the people who carved it.
Why the Rock Was Marked
In 1652, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was trying to figure out its northern border. Their official document, called a charter, said their land extended three miles north of the Merrimack River. The people exploring thought this rock marked the very northernmost point of the river. However, they were mistaken! The true source of the Merrimack River's main branch, the Pemigewasset River, is much farther north. The explorers were led to the wrong spot by their local guides.
Visiting Endicott Rock State Park
Today, Endicott Rock is part of a small park that you can visit. There's no charge to enter the park itself. It's a nice spot for a picnic. Sometimes, the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation calls it a "historic site," and other times they call it a "state park." In 1980, the rock and its protective pavilion were officially added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as a very important historical place in the United States.
