Why New Hampshire Was Named After Hampshire, England

The naming of states and territories after foreign lands or regions can often be traced back to historical or cultural influences. New Hampshire, one of the original thirteen colonies of the United States, is no exception. This article delves into the fascinating history behind why New Hampshire was named after Hampshire in England, exploring the reasons behind naming conventions and their historical significance.

The Naming of Hampshire

Hampshire takes its name from Southampton, a city on the south coast of England. This connection can be seen in its historical appellation, Southamptonshire, which appeared on Victorian maps. The Norman names Southampton and Hampshire were Hamptun and Hamptunscire, which are variations of the original Anglo-Saxon names.

The Naming of New Hampshire

The state of New Hampshire shares a similar naming basis. The State of New Hampshire was named in honor of Captain John Mason, a Governor of Hampshire County in England. Captain Mason was also the proprietor of the new territory. This honor bestowed upon Hampshire County England honored the English land and its rich history.

The Tradition of Naming

The practice of naming new territories after existing places or regions was quite common during the colonial era. This trend is evident in the names of other U.S. states such as New Hampshire, New York, and New Jersey, which all pay homage to places in the United Kingdom.

New York, for instance, was named after the Duke of York. Similarly, Suffolk County in the United States is named after Suffolk in England. And when one encounters a place named Chichester or Manchester, the presence of "chester" or "chester" usually indicates that there was a Roman fort in the area during ancient times.

Conclusion

In the case of New Hampshire, its name was deliberately chosen to honor Hampshire, a county in England. This naming not only carries historical significance but also serves as a cultural connection with the motherland. As such, New Hampshire stands as a state rich in heritage and named after the Hampshire of Old, echoing the rich history of its namesake in the United Kingdom.