Celebrities You Didn’t Know Were from New Hampshire
Nestled in the scenic town of Hanover, just a short 20-minute drive northwest of Lebanon, the Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College offers more than just a rich collection of visual art; it also serves as a cultural hub that celebrates the region’s connections to notable figures. Among its exhibits and archives, visitors can trace the early life of Robert Frost, one of America’s most beloved poets who spent formative years in nearby Franconia, which lies about 40 miles northeast. Walking through the museum’s galleries, you can imagine Frost’s poetic sensibility, deeply rooted in the rural New Hampshire landscape, and then venture out to Frost’s famous “Poetry Trail” along the Connecticut River, where the environment that inspired his work is still palpable.
About an hour south of Concord lies the historic town of Keene, where the Colonial Theatre stands as a jewel of early 20th-century architecture. This beautifully restored venue is not only a magnet for performing arts but also a reminder of Keene’s connection to the entertainment world through the legendary actor and comedian Steve Carell, who spent part of his childhood in nearby Concord. Attending a show here provides a tangible link to the vibrant cultural life that helped nurture local talents. The Colonial Theatre’s intimate atmosphere and ornate plasterwork make any performance, whether a play or a film screening, feel like a step back into the golden age of stagecraft.
Traveling east to Portsmouth, about an hour’s drive from Boston, the Strawbery Banke Museum offers an immersive experience of colonial New England life, where visitors can explore centuries-old houses and interact with costumed interpreters. Portsmouth is also the hometown of musician and actor Mandy Moore. While wandering through the museum’s winding streets, visitors can appreciate the rich history that shaped the town and the artistic spirit that continues today. Strawbery Banke’s seasonal festivals and living history programs bring the past vividly to life, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the cultural roots of notable locals.
Heading north, the town of Laconia sits along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, roughly 50 minutes east of Plymouth. The area is well known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, but it also boasts a surprising connection to the world of cinema through actress Anna Kendrick, who grew up nearby in Portland but has ties to the greater Lakes Region. Visitors to Weirs Beach can enjoy a lively boardwalk, boating, and the classic Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, which offers a nostalgic ride along the lake. The combination of stunning water views and quaint, vibrant town life gives you a glimpse of the environment that shaped a star with roots in New England.
In the quiet town of Peterborough, about 25 miles southwest of Concord, the Mariposa Museum and World Cultural Center offers a unique artistic atmosphere. Peterborough is closely linked to the life of poet and singer-songwriter Sarah Silverman, who spent part of her youth in New Hampshire. The Mariposa’s eclectic collections of folk art and cultural artifacts reflect the kind of creative environment that nurtures diverse talents. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibits and workshops that celebrate both local and global cultures, making it a special stop to appreciate the artistic heritage behind some of the state’s lesser-known celebrity connections.
Just under an hour’s drive west from Manchester, the small town of Peterborough is also home to the Monadnock Center for History and Culture. This is a key site for understanding the legacy of Franklin Pierce, the 14th president of the United States, who hailed from Hillsborough, about 15 minutes south of Manchester. While not a celebrity in the entertainment sense, Pierce’s historical significance adds depth to New Hampshire’s roster of notable figures. The center’s exhibits and walking tours offer insight into 19th-century life and politics, enriching any visit with a sense of the state’s early influence on national affairs.
Near the southern border in Nashua, about 40 minutes southwest of Manchester, the Palace Theatre enchants visitors with its historic charm and vibrant schedule of live music and performances. Nashua is tied to the early years of actress Allison Janney, who grew up in nearby Boston but has familial connections to the area. The Palace Theatre showcases everything from indie bands to theater productions, inserting Nashua firmly on the cultural map of New Hampshire. The beautifully preserved interior, coupled with a lively downtown scene, makes this venue a hotspot for discovering current local talent that shares the stage with national stars.
Finally, a trip to the White Mountains region, particularly around North Conway about 65 miles north of Manchester, offers not only stunning alpine views but also a connection to the legendary folk singer Arlo Guthrie, who has performed extensively in the area. The Mount Washington Auto Road, a famous scenic drive up to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast, provides a breathtaking backdrop to concerts and cultural events held nearby during the summer months. Guthrie’s ties to this rugged yet welcoming landscape underscore the state’s role in fostering American folk traditions, making North Conway a must-visit for those who appreciate music woven into the fabric of place.
New Hampshire’s varied towns, museums, and venues serve as living museums of the lives and legacies of these surprising stars. From Dartmouth’s academic halls to the lively stages of Portsmouth and Nashua, the state invites visitors to dive deep into the stories behind its well-known and hidden celebrity connections, all while enjoying its distinctive natural beauty and historical charm.