Cornish (N.H. : Town) (1763-)

Staff Only

Biography

The town was granted in 1763 and incorporated in 1765 by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth and named for Sir Samuel Cornish, a distinguished admiral of the Royal Navy. Since the late 19th century, Cornish has been a well-known summer resort for artists and writers. Sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens began coming to Cornish in 1885, seeking a studio away from the summer heat of New York City. Artist friends followed him, including painter and illustrator Maxfield Parrish, who designed and built his estate, the Oaks, in the area. The surrounding area became the center of the popular Cornish Art Colony.

Found in 3 Collections and/or Records:

Cornish (N.H. : Town) records

Collection

Identifier: MS-47

MS-47

Date(s): 1821 to 1873

Abstract

Cornish, New Hampshire(granted in 1763). The collection contains records of the town of Cornish, including legal, financial, and religious materials as well as correspondence of Benjamin Chapman.

Petition of Towns of Plainfield, Lebanon, Cornish, Hanover, Canaan, and Cardigan

Collection

Identifier: Mss 786151

Mss 786151

Date(s): 1786-02-01

Abstract

In English.

Proprietors of Cornish, NH record book

Collection

Identifier: 003443

Codex 003443

Date(s): Circa 1590

Abstract Records and meetings of the proprietors of Cornish, NH from 1765-1809. Includes a transcription copy of Governor Benning Wentworth's 1763 charter, a plat of the boundaries of Cornish as well as the original Proprietors names. Later entries focus on the laying out of roads, choosing from among the proprietors town officers, land division and church matters. The volume is bound in vellum covered boards and is likely a relict of a much earlier time as the laid paper is from Queen Elizabeth I...